Two prominent South African Football Association executives, as well as a businessman, were arrested on Wednesday (13/11) on allegations of maladministration and abuse of the association’s finances.

A warrant of arrest was issued for the two Safa members (73 and 55) and a businessman (46) following an intensive investigation by the Serious Commercial Crime Investigation in Johannesburg.

In March 2024 the Hawks raided the Safa offices in Johannesburg and numerous electronic devices and files were seized for further investigation leading to the arrests.

‘Allegations of R1.3 million fraud and theft’

It’s alleged that between 2014 and 2018, the officials of the sports governing body in South Africa used the organisation for personal gain.

The Hawks confirmed the arrest of the three individuals on Wednesday.

“Warrants have been issued for the arrest of two prominent South African Football Association’s executive officers aged 73 and 55 together with a businessman were executed this morning, 13 November following an intensive investigation by the Serious Commercial Crime Investigation based in Johannesburg into allegations of R1.3 million fraud and theft.

‘Cannot be named until they have appeared in court’

“The Serious Commercial Crime Investigation charged with probing the allegations executed search seizure warrants, 08 March 2024 at the South African Football Association's office where an assortment of electronic gadgets and files were seized for further investigation thus leading to the arrest.

“The executive is expected to appear later this morning in the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court sitting in Palm Ridge Magistrates’ court.”

OFM Sport knows the names of the arrested SAFA officials, as well as the businessman, however, they cannot be named until they have appeared in court.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh