Hangwani Maumela: NDPP Andy Mothibi addresses why the businessman remains free amid R300m seizures

The National Director of Public Prosecutions, Andy Mothibi, has reaffirmed the government's commitment to punishing those involved in the Tembisa Hospital looting. During a briefing with Parliament’s Standing Committee on Public Accounts on August 19, 2026, Mothibi faced tough questions regarding the status of businessman Hangwani Morgan Maumela.

Legislators were eager to know why Maumela remains a free man despite the significant legal actions already taken against his estate. While his assets have been frozen and seized, the businessman has not yet been formally charged with a crime.

A Multi-Million Rand Web

Maumela's business dealings first drew red flags from the late whistleblower Babita Deokaran before her murder in 2021. Investigations by the Special Investigating Unit previously identified roughly R800 million in suspicious transactions between Maumela's companies and the Gauteng Department of Health.

In a major blow to the alleged syndicate, the High Court authorized the seizure of over R300 million in assets in July 2026. This haul included several high-end luxury vehicles, highlighting the scale of the wealth allegedly siphoned from healthcare funds.

The Hawks Take the Lead

Mothibi clarified to the committee that while the asset forfeiture has been successful, the criminal aspect of the case is still being processed. The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks, is currently spearheading the active criminal probe.

The delay in an arrest has sparked political friction, with ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba previously demanding answers on why Maumela has not faced the dock. Public scrutiny has remained high due to the businessman's alleged connections to high-ranking officials.

Accountability Promised

The NPA head maintained that the legal process must be thorough to ensure a successful prosecution. He insisted that the state is working to ensure everyone implicated in the Tembisa Hospital corruption is held legally responsible.