On December 8, 2024, Lieutenant General (Dr/Adv) Godfrey Lebeya, National Head of the DPCI, attended the Anti-Corruption Day commemoration organized by the Active Citizens Movement (ACM). The event, held a day before International Anti-Corruption Day, honored the late Babita Deokaran, a whistle-blower who was tragically murdered in 2021. The theme of the event was "Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow's Integrity."
The event was divided into two parts: the “Call to Action” march and the official program, in which General Lebeya participated. In his address, General Lebeya reaffirmed the DPCI's commitment to combating corruption in South Africa. He assured the public that those involved in corrupt practices would face justice, and provided updates on ongoing investigations, including the case of Babita Deokaran's murder and the Tembisa hospital corruption scandal.
Regarding Deokaran's case, General Lebeya confirmed that six individuals had been arrested and convicted for her murder. He emphasized the need to uncover the true motive behind her killing, urging anyone with information about the mastermind to come forward. He also updated the public on the Tembisa hospital investigation, revealing that authorities are focusing on 89 entities, 71 of which received R635 million in questionable payments. The investigation has now been elevated to a criminal docket, with collaboration from the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).
General Lebeya also referenced other significant cases, such as the 3P Consulting corruption scandal involving R1.2 billion. He expressed hope that a fugitive involved in the case would soon be extradited from Europe to stand trial, alongside ten other individuals. The case is set for trial on January 22, 2025.
In his closing remarks, General Lebeya encouraged the public to actively participate in the fight against corruption. He urged attendees to report wrongdoing, protect whistle-blowers, and reject any attempts to engage in dishonest practices. "When you are invited to participate in any scheme of dishonesty, reject it and advise the one enticing you to do the right thing," he said, reinforcing the importance of integrity in combating corruption.
The commemoration highlighted the ongoing efforts by the DPCI and other authorities to tackle corruption and promote accountability across South Africa.