During his time as Director General at the national Department of Transport, Mahlalela allegedly spearheaded the renewal of the eNaTIS (National Traffic Information System) contract without following proper procedure.
The Hawks investigation revealed that soon after the contract was renewed, Tasima (Pty) Ltd, the company that owns eNaTIS, deposited millions of rands into Mahlalela's bank account. Thwala, Ncube and Mphuti also benefited from the entire deal.
Their case has been postponed to 20 July 2016 to allow for further investigation.
The National Head of the Hawks, Lieutenant General Mthandazo Ntlemeza, said the arrest and subsequent appearance of the accused should serve as a warning to all officials that crime does not pay.
Ntlemeza said while one does not want to prejudge the matter, this should serve as a warning to all departmental officials to do their work with honesty and integrity. "In fact, these kinds of allegations would not even arise if officials do their jobs which they get paid for diligently and conscientiously."
Ntlemeza said the Hawks are committed to fighting fraud and corruption. "I have committed to the people of this country that I will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that government officials discharge their duties with the utmost honesty. If we believe there is reason to be suspicious, we will not hesitate to arrest those responsible and let the law take its course."
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