Government Uncovers R300 Million Cyber Theft at Public Works

The newly appointed Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, has disclosed that the department has been the victim of a staggering R300 million cyber-related theft over the past 10 years. 

The latest incident occurred in May 2024, when cybercriminals stole an additional R24 million.

Macpherson stated that the department has been a “soft target and playground for cybercriminals” for over a decade, and that the scale of the theft should have been detected much earlier. 

He did not rule out the possibility of collusion between officials and the criminals, noting that the department’s financial controls need to be urgently strengthened.

Forensic Investigation Launched

In response to the R300 million public works cyber theft, the minister has launched a full forensic investigation involving the Hawks, South African Police Service, State Security Agency, and cybersecurity experts. 

Four senior and middle management officials have been suspended, and over 30 laptops have been seized for examination.

Macpherson emphasized the need for the investigation to be concluded swiftly, with tangible results and consequences for those responsible. 

He stressed that there is “simply no place for corruption” in the department, and that the stolen funds could have been used to improve infrastructure and the lives of South Africans.

Read More: South Africa’s Corporate Registration Breached by Hackers

Tracing the Stolen Funds

The minister has called on the investigative team to trace and recover the stolen funds, which he described as a “massive financial loss” for the department. 

He stated that those responsible for protecting the department from cybercriminals must be held accountable for the breach.

Macpherson pledged to keep the public informed as the investigation progresses, expressing hope that this will “be the start of building further transparency and trust in the department.” 

He vowed to crack down on the criminal syndicates and their internal collaborators, promising that the masterminds and beneficiaries of the theft will be brought to justice.

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