JOINT PRESS STATEMENT FROM THE HEATH SPECIAL INVESTIGATING UNIT AND THE OFFICES OF THE PUBLIC PROTECTOR, THE AUDITOR-GENERAL AND THE DIRECTOR OR PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS
Johannesburg, 2 February 1999
In a meeting held between the Heath Special Investigating Unit and the Offices of the Public Protector and the Auditor-General, a decision was taken on joint co-operation regarding the Gauteng Housing case. The Heath Special Investigating Unit will only officially become involved once a proclamation has been published by the President's Office.
This follows recent media reports regarding allegations of fraud and corruption within the Department of Housing and Land Affairs. The MEC subsequently referred certain allegations to the Office of the Public Protector for investigation.
The four bodies will be co-ordinating efforts to look at complaints against developers, irregularities with subsidy applications and alleged corruption by officials of the Department. Certain of these allegations have been highlighted in the Auditor-General's report and in investigations by the Public Protector.
The co-operation will entail regular meetings between the four bodies, sharing of information and co-ordination of current and future investigations.
Enquiries: Guy Rich
Cell: 082 491 0139
Nicolette Teichmann
Tel: (012) 322 1190
Cell: 082 651 3629