Transnet has suspended nine employees over suspected collusion with suppliers.
The suspensions followed an internal investigation into procurement practices, the state-owned entity said in a statement.
Transnet spokesperson Ayanda Shezi said disciplinary proceedings had begun against three of the suspended officials, with charges against the remaining employees to follow.
Shezi said the company had also initiated a process to blacklist suppliers implicated in the alleged collusion.
According to Transnet, the suspensions originated from findings uncovered during 34 internal audits conducted across two operating divisions.
The audits reviewed transactions concluded in the 2024/25 financial year, identifying instances where suppliers allegedly overcharged the entity by between 50% and 1 000% on various items. Further investigations are under way.
Group chief executive Michelle Phillips said Transnet maintained a zero tolerance approach to misconduct, confirming that law enforcement agencies had been approached to assist with the matter.
Transnet claims consequence management processes are currently in place, alongside measures aimed at tightening internal controls to prevent similar behaviour in future.
