Cholota, a former personal assistant to a high-ranking government official and electricity executive, is wanted for allegedly stealing millions of dollars in South Africa. She is facing charges related to tender corruption estimated at R255 million ($14.2 million) in the Free State province in 2014. Another individual, Michael Lomas, is also wanted for fraud, corruption, and money laundering amounting to R1.4 billion ($78 million) at Eskom, the national electricity corporation, between 2014 and 2017. Both individuals are allegedly connected to former South African president Jacob Zuma’s “State Capture” scheme, which has been described as the largest and most destructive fraud in African history.
The case of his murder remains unresolved.
Mr. Magashule was apprehended in relation to the asbestos housing scam in November 2020. Following bail, he awaits trial on charges of corruption, fraud, and money laundering.
He refutes the allegations.
Mr. Lomas was arrested on April 15, 2021, in London and granted bail of 100,000 pounds ($127,000).
The former Eskom executive is contesting his extradition from the United Kingdom citing health reasons.
Mr. Lomas suffers from a degenerative spinal condition and relies on a wheelchair for mobility.
In December 2021, South African prosecutors informed UK authorities that Mr. Lomas was sought in South Africa “to face trial for alleged fraud and corruption involving a R745 million payment by the power utility to Tubular Construction Project.
“The company was linked to the construction of Kusile Power Station, where illicit gratuities were allegedly paid to Eskom officials for the awarding of lucrative contracts, exposing Eskom to at least R1.4 billion in costs.”
“Currently Mr. Lomas requires residential care for assistance with daily activities like dressing and washing,” stated the doctor’s report.
“He receives weekly physiotherapy sessions, with recommendations not to remain in the same position for more than 45 minutes, except when in bed.”
Mr. Mitchell noted Mr. Lomas’ inability to move every 45 minutes on a commercial flight and highlighted his challenges in emergency situations or accessing facilities like the toilet.
The physician added: “Mr. Lomas expressed thoughts of self-harm if extradited, prompting the need for urgent psychiatric evaluation.”
A judge mandated that a medical professional, in consultation with the South African Police Service, accompany Mr. Lomas on the journey to South Africa if he is extradited.
“The accompanying clinician will assist with transferring [him] to and from the wheelchair, aiding with toilet use, and assisting with hygiene during the flight,” the ruling stated.
The court deemed the concern about Mr. Lomas’ inability to assume the brace position due to mobility issues as irrelevant.
“The necessity of a brace position for all passengers is unfounded,” the court noted.
“The potential for an emergency landing is not a substantial risk.”
Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga, spokesperson for the National Directorate of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), assured The Epoch Times of South Africa’s commitment to prosecute all individuals implicated in State Capture, regardless of their location.
He stated: “We are no longer a state associated with criminal activities. We are collaborating with global partners to bring these individuals to justice. They must be held accountable for the harm inflicted on our democracy.”
Among the NDPP’s top targets are Atul and Rajesh Gupta, alleged key accomplices of Mr. Zuma in the State Capture corruption.
As per Corruption Watch in South Africa, the Gupta family migrated from northern India to South Africa in 1993.
“Initially starting as computer vendors, the Guptas expanded into various sectors such as mining, technology, media, defense, and energy production,” the report stated.
“During Jacob Zuma’s presidency from 2009 to 2018, they were accused of using bribes to secure lucrative state contracts and influencing South African politics significantly.
“Investigations later revealed their manipulation of ministerial appointments to serve their interests during Zuma’s tenure.”
Atul and Rajesh Gupta fled South Africa in 2018 following Zuma’s ousting and were detained in Dubai in 2023 based on an Interpol Red Notice for international fugitives.
Authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) confirmed that the Guptas are under investigation while in custody.
However, Mr. Mhaga expressed frustration over the lack of cooperation from the UAE, stating: “The whereabouts of the Guptas are uncertain as the UAE is not providing full assistance.”
In April, the UAE dismissed South Africa’s extradition appeal for the siblings.
Vanuatu authorities revealed that Atul and Rajesh Gupta acquired citizenship through the country’s Economic Citizenship Programme in 2019, declaring their innocence of all charges in South Africa.
