Commission on Restitution of Land Rights suspends officials allegedly involved in financial irregularities

30 July 2024

The Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development , Mr Mzwanele Nyhontso has approved the immediate suspension of officials implicated in alleged financial irregularities within the Commission on Restitution of Land Rights (CRLR), Regional Land Claims Office in the Eastern Cape. 

Minister Nyhontso says the allegations are being treated with the utmost seriousness, and swift measures have been taken to ensure a full and thorough investigation by relevant authorities. Interim measures have been implemented to ensure the continued efficiency of service delivery in the affected province. Further suspensions are expected, amid the ongoing investigation.

The Commission on Restitution of Land Rights (CRLR) is committed to maintaining transparency and integrity throughout this process. The Chief Land Claims Commissioner, Ms. Nomfundo Ntloko, has already initiated a process to address and rectify weaknesses identified in the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that were exploited in the alleged irregular activity.

The Minister has warned that corruption within the Department will not be tolerated, and tough action will be taken against any officials implicated. He adds that, “corruption undermines the commitment to restore land rights and provide restitution to rightful beneficiaries”.

The Commission is cooperating fully with law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service’s Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation (Hawks), to ensure a thorough and unbiased investigation.

In addition, members of the public are urged to report all suspected fraudulent activities related to land claims to the department.

Issued by Nontembiso Kgatle on behalf of Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Reform, 31 July 2024