Telkom CEO Sipho Maseko has been involved in a case of alleged fraud for driving his private vehicle with number plates that are not registered to his name (and is also accused of defeating the ends of justice).
Maseko was caught driving his Range Rover with the TVL 414 GP number plate, but according to records the number plate is registered to Mabena Motshoane. Maseko has also managed to rack up a number of traffic fines with his illegal number plate – which is rumoured to be between R30 000 and R45 000.
While the investigation is currently ongoing, the Public Protector has now also been asked to investigate the matter as spokesman Oupa Segalwe confirmed that it has been approached.
He explained that the scope of the investigation will only go as far as trying to determine why the JMPD and the City of Johannesburg didn’t act in a timeous manner.
Telkom chairman Jabu Mabuza has insisted that it’s a “private matter”, while Maseko himself has claimed to be working with the authorities to solve the issue.
“As previously indicated, I have presented myself to the authorities and remain committed to resolving the issue within the ambit of the law. No official charges have been brought against me, and I will not comment on unsubstantiated allegations,” Maseko said previously.
But the JMPD has completed its investigation, as director Gerrie Gerneke told Business Day that they have enough evidence. “This is now a criminal case … We have more than enough information against this man,” he said.
Telkom has issued a media statement, distancing themselves from Maseko’s private actions. “The subject of your enquiry pertains to a matter that is personal to Mr Maseko and is in no way related to Telkom. As such, Mr Maseko will deal with it in his personal capacity. The Company is aware that Mr Maseko has presented himself to the authorities and that he is committed to resolving the issue within the ambit of the law. Telkom trusts that he will continue to work with the relevant authorities until the matter is resolved and therefore has no further comment on this matter.”
[Source – Business Day, Image – Shutterstock]
