“Makhudu Sefara, editor of the Sunday Times, has been placed on special leave after being implicated in a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) probe about misappropriated lottery funds.”

“On Tuesday, the SIU — an independent statutory body with a mandate to investigate allegations of corruption, malpractice and maladministration in government departments, municipalities and state-owned entities — said it has received full repayment of R3.2m from beneficiaries related to the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) “who unduly benefited”.”

“The amount is made up of R1.5m “that was misappropriated by Todi Media Development Foundation NPC” and R1.71m “unduly awarded” to Zibsiflo NPC.”

“The probe found that the commission granted Todi Media R1.5m in 2018 that was intended for a media project that included covering journalists’ accommodation, car hire, catering, equipment rental, guest speakers, marketing and security.”

“Instead of being used for that purpose, the SIU said that R550,000 was diverted to an entity called Unscripted Communication, whose director is Makhudu Sefara.”

“The SIU said the amount was used to purchase a property, Bassonia Rock Extension, in Johannesburg.”

“Khutso Daniel Makwela, director of Todi Media, admitted to the misuse of the funds.”

“He signed an acknowledgement of debt.”

“The full amount of R1.5m was repaid on March 30.”