The Public Enterprises Deputy Minister, Obed Bapela, is currently under investigation by the Hawks for theft under false pretences.
The investigation stems from allegations that Bapela failed to pay an aggrieved contractor for the construction of his double-story Morningside home in 2014.
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According to an affidavit filed by the contractor, Johannes Majoe, Bapela owes him an outstanding amount of R420,000. Majoe claims that despite completing the agreed-upon work, the deputy minister has refused to make the payment.
The contract was initially entered into with Bapela’s late wife, Constance Bapela, who was the former Speaker for the City of Joburg. Bapela was listed as a witness on the contract as the homeowner.
The scope of work outlined by Majoe included the construction of a double-storey house, plastering, roofing, installation of ceilings, plumbing, electric work, and the construction of a swimming pool. The total value of the contract was R773,000, with the outstanding balance of R420,000.
In a leaked telephonic recording obtained by Eyewitness News, Bapela alleges that Majoe did not complete the work as agreed. He claims to have had to borrow an additional R480,000 from lawyers to hire another contractor to finish the project, as Majoe had allegedly disappeared, leaving behind an incomplete structure.
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The Sandton Police Station confirmed that an inquiry was opened and subsequently transferred to the Hawks for further investigation.
The investigation into Deputy Minister Obed Bapela’s alleged theft under false pretenses will shed light on the dispute between the contractor and the deputy minister, ultimately determining the veracity of the claims made by both parties involved.
