University of Fort Hare overcharging probe leads to fund recovery

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has secured Acknowledgements of Debt from companies found to have overcharged the University of Fort Hare for student accommodation leases. An investigation into the Eastern Cape-based university revealed that certain service providers were paid amounts exceeding those specified in their lease contracts.

Two service providers, Equicent Eastern Cape Developments (Pty) Ltd and Tshongwane Trust, signed Acknowledgements of Debt after overcharging the university by R302,814.50 and R2,928,163.84, respectively. A third provider, Lynton and Harmony, paid R103,829.96 directly into the SIU bank account following a letter of demand.

The SIU has also referred nine disciplinary cases involving current and former officials at the University of Fort Hare linked to the leasing of student accommodation.