How the Department of Defence is tackling irregular expenditure investigations

The Department of Defence (DOD) revealed the challenges it faces investigating irregular, fruitless, and wasteful expenditure (IFWE).

The Department of Defence (DOD) laid bare the challenges it faces investigating irregular, fruitless, and wasteful expenditure (IFWE).

The DOD has 63 completed cases, 72 incomplete cases, and 125 pending cases. Approximately R1.7 billion in cases are being investigated by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), popularly known as the Hawks, Special Investigations Unit (SIU), and the Public Protector.

The DOD presented a progress report relating to IFWE to the Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans on Wednesday. They also updated on the progress of Boards of Inquiry (BOIs).

Deputy Director Logistics Division Maria Skosana explained that six incidents valued at R106 million have been reviewed by National Treasury and the Department 's financial records were subsequently updated with the condonement for the 2025/2026 financial year.

The Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans received a report from the Department of Defence

She said a total of 31 submissions valued at R47 million have been finalised, awaiting departmental review for National Treasury consideration for condonement.

Skosana explained that the DOD has approximately 78 procurement units across the country, distributed among the Army, the Airforce, the Military Health Services and the Logistics Division, which has the two biggest procurement centres in Pretoria and Cape Town.

“When the Department or the Auditor-General identifies any irregularities, a board of inquiry must be convened to investigate the cause of the irregularity and make recommendations, based on the findings,” Skosana said.

She said measures have been implemented to accelerate investigations and finalise outstanding cases. Five members have been appointed, effective August 1, 2026, to specifically assist in clearing the backlog and improve the turnaround time for consequence management.

Skosana said nine members were subjected to disciplinary action (reprimands) for procurement-related irregularities, with a combined value of approximately R5.45 million.

“These cases relate to non-compliance with supply chain management prescripts, including irregular bidding processes, tax non-compliance, and improper procurement practices,” she said.

Eleven staff members are currently undergoing court proceedings related to fraud and corruption cases linked to procurement, with a total value of approximately R273.5 million.

Skosana said there are approximately eight members who have been arrested, relating to financial misconduct cases.