PUMP IT UP – SAPS to probe claims cops bought R123-a-litre diesel at Stanfield-owend garage

NewsSportLifestyleEntertainmentOpinionNewsPUMP IT UP – SAPS to probe claims cops bought R123-a-litre diesel at Stanfield-owned garageChris Gilili|Updated 2 hours agoCopy to ClipboardAsk AIALLEGED UNDERWORLD FIGURES: Ralph Stanfield and his wife Nicole Johnson

WESTERN Cape police will investigate claims that nearly 3 000 litres of diesel were bought from a filling station owned by organised crime couple Ralph Stanfield and his wife Nicole Johnson.

​The South African Police Service (SAPS) reportedly made these purchases from the John Ramsay service station in Bishop Lavis, during loadshedding between September 2022 and March 2023.

​AmaBhungane reported on Tuesday that in one instance, the Bishop Lavis Police Training Academy purchased normal coastal diesel for R123 per litre, when it costs R24.83. This is almost five times the average retail price.

​Speaking to IOL Media, Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) national spokesperson Richard Mamabolo said they view the allegations against the SAPS with serious concern.

​Mamabolo said: “While these allegations must still be subjected to proper verification, they raise fundamental questions about the integrity of SAPS procurement processes, the effectiveness of internal financial controls and the extent to which proper due diligence is conducted before public funds are committed.

​“It is particularly concerning that the reported transactions allegedly took place while SAPS was investigating individuals associated with the supplying business.

​“This apparent contradiction warrants a thorough and independent investigation to establish who authorised the transactions, whether the prescribed supply chain management procedures were followed, and whether any SAPS officials knowingly facilitated irregular procurement arrangements.”

​AmaBhungane said the Nyanga Police Station purchased diesel up to the tune of R38 131.64, while the Lentegeur Police Station spent R19 764 and the Bishop Lavis Police Academy purchased diesel for a whopping R130 587.10.  

​Western Cape SAPS has reportedly launched an inquiry to establish the facts and determine whether the matter warrants a criminal investigation.

​National police spokesperson Amanda Van Wyk said SAPS is looking into the matter.