Pretoria: President Jacob Zuma has ordered the Special Investigative Unit (SIU) to probe alleged irregularities in the affairs of the South African Post Office (SAPO).

According to Zuma’s spokesperson, Mac Maharaj, the President on Tuesday signed a proclamation directing the SIU to investigate “serious maladministration” within SAPO, as well as improper or unlawful conduct by SAPO officials and unlawful appropriation or expenditure of public money.

Other allegations to be investigated by the SIU include irregularities, malpractice or maladministration in the affairs of SAPO in relation to the management of immovable property; intentional or negligent loss of public money or damage to public property; the implementation of the WebRipost system and loans granted to Courier and Freight Group (Pty) Limited.

“The SIU will further investigate allegations of irregularities relating to the recruitment, selection and appointment of officials or employees of SAPO, as well payments which were made by SAPO to fictitious officials or employees,” said Maharaj.