Sweeping Corruption Allegations Unfold in Eastern Cape Land Claims Fraud Case

In an unraveling investigation that highlights deep-seated issues of corruption within governmental land affairs, nine individuals, including a senior official, have been implicated in a fraudulent land claims scandal in East London, Eastern Cape. The case, which culminated in the most recent arrest of Lungela Malusi (46), a relative of a senior manager at the East London Department of Rural Development and Land Affairs, has sent shockwaves throughout the community, exposing a systemic manipulation of land claim processes spanning from 2017 to 2024.

On 18 December 2024, Lungela was apprehended under a warrant of arrest executed in George, Western Cape, and was subsequently brought before the East London Magistrates Court. The arrest was a part of an extensive investigation spearheaded by the East London Serious Corruption Investigation unit of the Hawks. This unit uncovered allegations that a director of quality assurance at the department colluded with relatives to orchestrate fraudulent land claims, which were wrongfully approved under her authority.

It is alleged that this director altered the beneficiaries' details to include her relatives and even her domestic workers, thus diverting the payments meant for lawful land claimants to these unentitled individuals. As the scandal unfolds, it is estimated that the fraudulent activities have cost the Department of Land Affairs over R9.3 million.

The court proceedings thus far have revealed a complex web of deceit. Not only were legitimate claimant documents falsified, but banking information was also allegedly altered to reroute funds directly into the accounts of those accused. The acting provincial head of the Hawks, Brigadier Fernando Luis, emphasized the organization's commitment to rooting out corruption, asserting their resolve to tackle these crimes without prejudice.

Lungela Malusi, following in the footsteps of her eight co-accused, was released on a R10,000 bail with the case adjourned to 19 February 2025, where she will join the others to answer these serious allegations. This case serves as a stark reminder of the vigilance needed within departments handling sensitive land claims and the broader implications of such fraud on the rightful beneficiaries deprived of their lawful entitlements.

As the investigation continues, the Hawks are urging the public to come forward with any information that may assist in further uncovering malpractices within government-related land affairs, aiming to ensure that justice is served and integrity restored in the management of land distribution.