News24 reports that the police are investigating a claim that the Public Investment Corporation’s (PIC’s) Thabiso Moshikara, acting head of the fund manager’s Unlisted Investments unit, solicited a R3-million kickback from property entrepreneur Ralebala Mampeule.

Gauteng provincial police spokesperson Mavela Masondo confirmed the investigation and said: “Police can confirm that a case of extortion has been opened at Midrand police station, and an investigation is under way. Warning statements would be obtained from the suspects. The docket would then be taken to the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) for a decision.” Mampeule is a beneficiary of R693 million in PIC funding through Levoca 804, a company that owns a 19.5% equity interest in Metrofribre Networx, a provider of fibre optic broadband connectivity. The PIC’s spokesperson, Sekgoela Sekgoela, said the asset manager was not aware that the police were investigating Moshikara. He stated: “The Public Investment Corporation has not been approached by the South African Police Service regarding any investigation into allegations against its employee, Mr Thabiso Moshikara. Should the PIC be approached, it will fully cooperate with the police investigation to the extent it is required and is able to.”

• Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Sipho Masondo at News24 (subscription / trial registration required)

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