South African President Cyril Ramaphosa recently authorized the Specialised Investigation Unit (SIU) to look into Edwin Sodi’s R290 million Rooiwal Wastewater treatment plant tender in the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality. This tender was allegedly irregularly awarded to controversial businessman Edwin Sodi’s companies, NJR Projects and Blackhead Consulting, as reported by ZiMoja.
Allegations of Irregular Awarding of R290 Million Tender
In response to the City of Tshwane’s intention to blacklist Edwin Sodi’s companies NJR Projects and Blackhead Consulting due to the failed project, Sodi’s lawyers released a statement.
It stated, “The project’s failure can be attributed to the fraudulent conduct of Mr. R Schoeman, a director of CMS Water Engineering. This led NJR to file criminal charges with the SAPS. Following an investigation, Mr. Schoeman was arrested and charged with fraud.”
Edwin Sodi-Image Source@thesouthafricanMysterious Circumstances Surrounding Rudolf Schoeman’s Death
Rudolf Schoeman, Sodi’s late partner from CMS Water Engineering, was found deceased in March at his Bryanston residence, as reported by SowetanLIVE. Despite the death certificate citing natural causes, suspicions of foul play arose due to the severe injuries on his face. A family member, who chose to remain anonymous, was quoted as saying, “A person cannot be so badly injured from natural causes.”
Controversial History of Edwin Sodi and Rudolf Schoeman
Prior to Schoeman’s passing, both he and Edwin Sodi were embroiled in a series of controversial tender scandals. In 2019, Schoeman faced allegations of improper practices and fraudulent appointment without adhering to procurement rules. This was in relation to the upgrading and extension of Bospoort water treatment works in Rustenburg, with a tender valued at R85 million. Shortly after, Sodi’s companies, NJR Projects and Blackhead Consulting, along with CMS, were awarded a joint venture valued at just over R290 million.
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