In a significant development regarding the Free State asbestos tender corruption case, Moroadi Cholota, the former personal assistant to ex-Free State Premier Ace Magashule, was extradited from the United States to South Africa.
Cholota landed at OR Tambo International Airport on Thursday evening, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing investigation.
In June, Judge Erin Aslan of the Maryland District Court approved South Africa’s application to extradite Cholota. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) had initially requested her extradition in 2022 after linking her to the R255 million asbestos tender corruption case.
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The American court found that the NPA presented “sufficient evidence” to justify this move. Cholota’s return to South Africa represents a significant victory for law enforcement agencies, including the Hawks.
Col. Philani Nkwalase, spokesperson for the Hawks, spoke outside OR Tambo Airport, emphasizing the importance of this milestone. “To date, we have 18 suspects charged in this case, together with five companies,” stated Nkwalase. He further confirmed that the trial, which includes Cholota as a new accused, is scheduled to run from April 15, 2025, to June 23, 2025.
The corruption charges relate to an R255 million asbestos contract awarded by the Free State Department of Human Settlements to the Blackhead Consulting Joint Venture.
The contract aimed to audit, assess, and remove asbestos from homes in some of the Free State’s most impoverished areas approximately six years ago. Following her extradition, Cholota was handed over to the Hawks by Interpol.
She is expected to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on Monday to face charges ranging from fraud and corruption to money laundering.
Nkwalase did not comment on whether bail would be opposed, stating, “We are content she is here. Bail issues will be contemplated in court. We have not had any challenges with other suspects in this matter.”
This extradition constitutes a significant step toward justice, reflecting the commitment of South African authorities to hold accountable those implicated in the asbestos tender corruption case.
