The Hawks raided the headquarters of the South African Football Association [SAFA] in Nasrec, Johannesburg, on Friday over allegations of fraud involving R1.3 million.
The search and seizure operation by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation stems from allegations of fraud and theft amounting to R1.3 million allegedly committed by the SAFA president, Danny Jordaan, between 2014 and 2018.
The Hawks are investigating claims that the president misused SAFA funds for personal gain. It is said that Jordaan hired a private security company for his protection and a public relations firm without proper authorisation from the SAFA board.
WHAT THE HAWKS SEIZED DURING THE SAFA HOUSE RAID
These actions are said to have violated SAFA statutes and resulted in a loss of R1.3 million to the organisation. During the operation, Hawks officials seized several items. These include a laptop, external hard drives, a USB drive, and various documents.
“The warrants were promoted by allegations of fraud and theft amounting to R1.3 million,” the Hawks said in a statement.
“The allegations are that between 2014 and 2018, the president of SAFA used the organisation’s resources for his personal gain, including hiring a private security company for his personal protection and a Public Relations company without authorisation from the SAFA Board.
“The president is also reported to have violated SAFA statutes thus prejudicing SAFA an actual loss of R1.3 million.”
Mired in controversy, Jordaan’s leadership of SAFA has been dogged by accusations of financial impropriety and corruption throughout his tenure. These allegations have shadowed Jordaan’s presidency, which is currently in its third term.
Jordaan ascended to the helm of SAFA in 2013, taking over from Kirsten Nematandani. He has remained in the position for nearly nine years.
However, the former FIFA General Coordinator had previously indicated his intention to step down in 2027 upon completion of his third term as SAFA president.
This is a developing story
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