Babita Deokaran murder probe 'almost done' - SIU
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) says it is finalising its investigation into the murder of Gauteng health official Babita Deokaran, who was gunned down in 2021 after exposing alleged tender corruption at Tembisa Hospital.
Speaking to SABC News on Thursday, SIU head Advocate Andy Mothibi confirmed that investigators are in the final stages of gathering evidence and that a report will be made public once the process is complete.
"We will be going out soon. We are just finalising the investigation. In fact, I'll be meeting the investigating team soon."
Deokaran’s assassination sent shockwaves across the country and prompted widespread calls for greater protection of whistleblowers.
Mothibi acknowledged that whistleblowers remain vulnerable, and said their safety is crucial in South Africa’s broader fight against corruption.
READ: Whistleblower Babita Deokaran murderers sentenced after plea agreement
"There are measures in place at the moment to protect whistleblowers, but we agree that they can be improved. Because we’ve seen in many instances, whistleblowers suffer prejudices, in some instances, even the extreme price of death."
He praised Deokaran’s efforts in helping the SIU and the Gauteng Department of Health uncover financial misconduct at Tembisa Hospital.
"The immense input that Babita Deokaran’s efforts has really given us… to uncover corruption that’s happening in the Department of Health, particularly at Tembisa Hospital, has been very helpful."
Mothibi said the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, backed by the Presidency, is leading efforts to reform and strengthen whistleblower protection frameworks.
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