Special Investigating Unit
The Special Investigating Unit is a South African statutory anti-corruption body established to investigate serious maladministration, malpractice and corruption in state institutions. The unit operates under the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act of 1996 and reports to the President of South Africa. It is headed by a director who is appointed by the President and has the powers to investigate allegations of unlawful conduct, recover state assets and refer matters for criminal prosecution. The SIU conducts investigations only when authorised by presidential proclamation, which defines the scope and subject matter of each probe. Its mandate covers government departments, state-owned enterprises, public entities and municipalities. The unit works closely with law enforcement agencies such as the Hawks and the National Prosecuting Authority to ensure that findings lead to accountability. It also has civil litigation powers and can approach the Special Tribunal to recover financial losses suffered by the state. The SIU has investigated high-profile cases involving procurement irregularities, tender fraud and misuse of public funds. It plays a central role in South Africa's efforts to combat corruption and strengthen governance in the public sector.
Special Investigating Unit Updates
SIU exposes R58m land fraud syndicate in Ekurhuleni municipality
By: Thabi Shomolekae 16th September 2026 The Special Investigating Unit has uncovered a massive criminal syndicate responsible for the fraudulent transfer of Ekurhuleni municipal land... →
Daily Podcast – September 14, 2026
By: Halima Frost 14th September 2026 Making headlines: SAPS deploys task team as political outrage mounts over murder of 5 women; Ramaphosa greenlights SIU probe into eThekwini... →
Ramaphosa greenlights SIU probe into eThekwini municipality, North West Transport Investments 
By: Thabi Shomolekae 14th September 2026 President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed a new proclamation and a key amendment empowering the Special Investigating Unit to probe deep-seated... →
Special Investigating Unit freezes properties and vehicles associated with Liyabongeka Trading Enterprise CC
11th September 2026 The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has secured a provisional preservation order from the Special Tribunal, freezing three properties and five... →
City of Joburg Council appointment of the head of Public Safety undermines the integrity of the administration
11th September 2026 ActionSA is gravely concerned about the recent decision taken by the ANC led administration in the City of Joburg’s Council to appoint Lesiba... →
Daily Podcast – September 04, 2026
4th September 2026 September 04, 2026. For Creamer Media in Johannesburg, this is Polity’s daily podcast →
Ramaphosa authorises SIU corruption probe into E Cape Public Works
By: Thabi Shomolekae 4th September 2026 President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially authorised the Special Investigating Unit to probe allegations of corruption and maladministration at the... →
DA calls for urgent Parliamentary hearing over PIC’s R432m Acapulco debacle
4th September 2026 Acapulco borrowed R333 million from the Public Investment Corporation (PIC), defaulted on the loan, and yet ended up being paid more than R432... →
Lesufi fails to hold corrupt officials accountable while claiming to uphold the rule of law
3rd September 2026 The Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG), under Premier Panyaza Lesufi, claims to be committed to the rule of law and due process; however, it fails... →
Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi congratulates Mr Leonard Lekgetho on his appointment as Head of the SIU
2nd September 2026 The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Ms. Mmamoloko Kubayi, congratulates Mr. Leonard Gaoretelelwe Lekgetho, following his... →
