Fugitive Michael Lomas Arrives in South Africa After Extradition from ...

3 hours ago

Free State Central News

Michael Lomas

Michael Lomas, a former Eskom contractor, has finally been extradited to South Africa from the United Kingdom to face charges related to a R1.5 billion fraud and corruption case involving Eskom’s Kusile power station. Lomas, who has been linked to the alleged misappropriation of funds during the construction of the Kusile project, arrived at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Friday morning under heavy police guard.

The 63-year-old, reportedly wheelchair-bound and frail, was accompanied by law enforcement officials from the UK, where he has been residing since fleeing South Africa in 2019. His arrival marks the culmination of an extensive extradition battle led by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Investigative Directorate, and is a major step in South Africa’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption at Eskom, the state-owned power utility.

The Kusile Power Station Corruption Scandal

The charges against Michael Lomas stem from his alleged involvement in a vast corruption scheme related to Eskom’s Kusile power station project, one of the largest energy infrastructure projects in South Africa. The Kusile project, which was intended to alleviate the country’s energy crisis, became marred in controversy as costs ballooned and deadlines were repeatedly missed.

At the centre of the case is a contract awarded to Tubular Construction Projects, where Lomas served as the director. The company was responsible for supplying and installing structural steelwork at Kusile. However, investigations revealed that Eskom had paid Tubular Construction over R745 million in irregular payments, sparking an investigation by South Africa’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) and the NPA’s Investigative Directorate.

Lomas faces charges of fraud, corruption, and money laundering related to the Kusile project. He is accused of being a central figure in the siphoning of Eskom funds through inflated contracts, kickbacks, and other fraudulent activities.

Extradition and Legal Proceedings

Lomas’ extradition from the UK has been a protracted process, involving legal disputes in both countries. The South African government, through the NPA’s Investigative Directorate, filed for his extradition in 2020. After a lengthy legal battle, the UK courts granted the request in early 2024, marking a major victory for the South African authorities.

Upon his arrival at OR Tambo International Airport, Lomas was immediately taken into police custody. He was transported to the Kempton Park police station for processing and then handed over to the Hawks, who will oversee the investigation into his alleged criminal activities. It is expected that Lomas will appear before the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court to formally face the charges laid against him.

NPA spokesperson, Sipho Ngwema, confirmed that Lomas would be appearing in court within 48 hours of his arrival in South Africa. “This is a significant step in our efforts to bring those responsible for corruption at Eskom to justice. Mr. Lomas will face the full might of the law for his alleged role in the corruption at Kusile,” Ngwema stated.

The Bigger Picture: Eskom and Corruption

Lomas’ return to South Africa comes at a time when Eskom remains in the spotlight for its financial struggles, operational inefficiencies, and widespread allegations of corruption. The Kusile power station, along with its counterpart Medupi, were meant to solve South Africa’s energy crisis by increasing the country’s power generation capacity. However, both projects have been beset by cost overruns, technical issues, and allegations of corrupt dealings.

The corruption allegations linked to Kusile have been a source of public outrage, as the country continues to suffer from load shedding and increasing electricity tariffs. The mismanagement of funds has not only delayed the project’s completion but has also cost the country billions in taxpayer money.

Lomas is one of several high-profile individuals implicated in the Eskom corruption cases. Former Eskom executives, contractors, and suppliers have all been under investigation by the Hawks and the NPA. The Investigative Directorate has been working tirelessly to build cases against those accused of defrauding the state-owned enterprise, and Lomas’ extradition is seen as a major breakthrough.

The Role of the NPA Investigative Directorate

The NPA’s Investigative Directorate was established in 2019 as part of the government’s efforts to tackle corruption in state-owned enterprises, particularly Eskom. The Directorate has been instrumental in pursuing high-profile cases related to state capture, fraud, and corruption. Michael Lomas’ case is just one of many being handled by the Directorate, but his extradition is a clear indication that no one is above the law.

“The successful extradition of Mr. Lomas sends a strong message that South Africa is serious about tackling corruption and holding those responsible accountable, regardless of where they are in the world,” said Advocate Hermione Cronje, head of the Investigative Directorate.

The Impact of Lomas’ Extradition on the Eskom Case

With Lomas now back in South Africa, the legal process can move forward. His trial will likely shed more light on the extent of the corruption at Eskom and the Kusile power station, potentially implicating other high-profile individuals in the process. It is expected that Lomas will cooperate with authorities in exchange for a more lenient sentence, as part of a plea agreement.

However, legal experts have cautioned that the case is far from over. “Lomas’ extradition is just the beginning. The case against him is complex, and it will take time for the full extent of his involvement to be revealed in court,” said legal analyst Zola Khumalo. “There are likely more people involved in the Eskom corruption scandal, and Lomas’ testimony could lead to further arrests and prosecutions.”

Fugitive Michael Lomas Arrives in South Africa After Extradition from UK to Face R1.5 Billion Graft Charges 7

Central News Weekly Edition 072 | Download the latest weekly edition| Top Story: “MAP16 Distances Itself from Jacob Zuma’s MK Party following Floyd Shivambu’s Social Media Post”

DownLoad Here: ⬇⬇

Read all our publications on magzter:

https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues

Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.

We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.

To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : [email protected]

For Business Related:

[email protected]

Newsroom:

Send your Stories / Media Statements To: [email protected]

General Info:

[email protected]

Office Administrator:

[email protected]

Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487

Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za