Dean Macpherson Goes After Stolen R300 Million

Newly appointed minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Macpherson says cybersecurity within the department and the country at large is a pressing issue that must be given serious attention. These remarks were made after the swearing ceremony of the National Executive and as he outlines his plans for better service to the nation.

The minister made a statement on his X (former twitter) account @DeanMacpherson that approximately R300 million has been stolen from the department by cybercrooks duringthe past decade. Macpherson says a detailed forensicinvestigation will be conducted by intelligence agencies and cybersecurity experts to find out where these funds were moved to and hopefully get the culprits apprehended. He also noted that this looting may have also been carried out by some corrupt members within the department. Macpherson said, “It is unthinkable to think this has gone on for so long without being noticed.” He believes the advanced forensic investigation will help in identifying all those who are involved in malpractice.

Macpherson has expressed a firm stance against acts of corruption and promises South Africans to bring an end to the cyber-attacks on businesses. In research carried out by the South African Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), South Africa ranks amongst the top eight countries globally targeted by cyber criminals. In August 2023, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) witnessed a data breach which exposed classified information to the public. In 2019, the Johannesburg City Power also experienced a ransomware attack which led to power supply being disrupted in many areas.

Macpherson will make sure that hijacked buildings are reclaimed and probe the construction mafia with the help of the South African Police Service (SAPS). The minister has also indicated an interest in making sure the use of pit toilets in public schools become a thing of the past. Macpherson has been a member of parliament with the Democratic Alliance (DA) political party under which he still serves as minister.