City Power has taken legal action against the Hawks following a contentious search and seizure operation at its headquarters last week. The municipal power utility, which provides energy to the City of Johannesburg, claims that the raid was conducted unlawfully and is now seeking to have both the search warrant and any materials confiscated during the operation overturned.
The incident is reportedly linked to a controversial R67 million tender concerning the procurement of transformers, raising questions about the integrity of the bidding process. This interdict is scheduled to be heard next Tuesday in the High Court in Johannesburg, with the Hawks required to file a response by the end of the following Tuesday.
City Power spokesperson Isaac Mangena expressed serious concerns over the conduct of the Hawks throughout this investigation. He indicated that the power utility has been cooperative since receiving a request for information as long ago as November 2024. “We responded to that request and provided the necessary assistance,” Mangena stated, adding that subsequent inquiries by a different set of investigation officers not only duplicated efforts but also involved a public spectacle that seemed aimed at humiliating the utility and its executives.
“This raises serious concerns about the motives behind the operation and the apparent procedural irregularities involved,” Mangena continued. He stressed that the Hawks have conducted previous visits, including one in August, reportedly without the necessary legal authorisation, further complicating matters and casting doubt on the legitimacy of their actions.