Orlando Pirates have issued an official statement following an urgent High Court application aimed at preserving over R20 million linked to their former finance manager, Darryl Joselowsky, amidst allegations of systematic fraud.
The Soweto giants are seeking to freeze four bank accounts associated with Joselowsky, which hold a combined balance of R20.2 million. The development was first reported by TimesLIVE.
In addition to freezing the funds, the club is seeking further information from Standard Bank to trace the transactions, determine where the money went, and identify who benefited from the scheme.
The legal application was jointly brought forward by Orlando Pirates Football Club, Orlando Pirates Retailing, and Orlando Pirates Properties against Joselowsky and Standard Bank.
ORLANDO PIRATES CLARIFY COURT BID
On Sunday morning, the Buccaneers released a official statement addressing the matter, clarifying that the legal proceedings are a protective measure while investigations remain ongoing.
“Orlando Pirates Football Club is aware of media reports concerning a court application brought by the Club,” reads the statement.
“The Club has asked the High Court to preserve funds linked to certain financial transactions while those transactions are investigated. This is a precautionary step to protect the Club’s funds during the process.
“The application is not a finding of wrongdoing and should not be interpreted as one. The individual concerned is cooperating, and the Club is committed to a fair process for everyone involved.”
ORLANDO PIRATES CONFIRMS THAT FOCUS REMAINS ON OPERATIONS AND ON-PITCH DUTIES
The Betway Premiership defending champions assured its stakeholders that the ongoing legal matter will not affect its administrative or sporting operations.
“Our supporters, partners and sponsors can be assured that the Club’s day-to-day operations and commitments continue as normal. Our focus remains on the team and the season ahead,” the statement further added.
“As the matter is before the court, it would not be appropriate for the Club to comment further at this stage. We will provide updates when we are able to do so.”
Pirates will be back in action against Mamelodi Sundowns in the sold-out MTN8 final on Saturday, 10 October. the much-awaited final showdown will take place at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. The kick is set for 18:00 as confirmed by the PSL five days ago.
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