The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spent years investigating allegations. These allegations first aired at the Zondo Commission. Now, IDAC has solidified their investigations.
A senior politician has been brought directly into the docket alongside his former executive appointees. In the major corruption case concerning Transnet’s illegal train purchases, Malusi Gigaba is facing charges. He is a former Minister of Public Enterprises and has been added to the list of accused. He is now the fifth accused.
The Core Charge: Corrupt Cash
Between 2010 and 2014, Gigaba was the minister in charge. During this period, three Transnet contracts for about 1,300 locomotives were allegedly manipulated. These contracts are at the center of the lawsuit.
The State’s central allegation against him is direct. Gigaba is being accused of having to accept corrupt cash payments from members of the Gupta family on multiple occasions which he was not entitled to receive.
The IDAC claims that the state-owned transport firm suffered enormous losses. These losses occurred as a result of willful violations of the R50 billion contracts’ tender procedures.
Five Accused: The State Capture Docket
The Former Minister now joins four former Transnet executives. The executives include Brian Molefe, the Former Group Chief Executive. Another is Anoj Singh, who was the Former Chief Financial Officer. Siyabonga Gama served as the Former Chief Executive. Lastly, Thamsanqa Jiyane was the Former Executive. These individuals were already facing charges of fraud and corruption.
An important turning point in South Africa’s fight for State Capture accountability has been reached. This is marked by the combined charges against these five persons.
Gigaba has not been arrested as he is cooperating in the investigation. He appeared at the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 18 November 2025, after being issued a summons.
The matter was postponed to the 30th of January 2026. It would be formally transferred to the High Court. This highlights the seriousness of the charges.
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