The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) has suspended chief operations officer Sobantu Tilayi pending the outcome of an internal investigation.
The “precautionary” move happened on 7 November following “allegations of financial mismanagement”, SAMSA said.
The investigation was launched after an extensive review by SAMSA’s executive management and board, as part of its commitment to upholding governance and financial accountability, it added.
No other details were given, but this is the second such probe Tilayi has faced.
He was suspended in 2021 and reinstated last year.
The authority said the latest suspension is a procedural measure that allows officials to carry out a fair and impartial process.
“The suspension does not imply any presumption of wrongdoing. Rather, it is intended to ensure that the investigation can proceed in a transparent manner, free from potential influence or disruption,” it added.
The probe is to focus on compliance with financial management protocols.
Acting chief executive Mbalenhle Golding said: “SAMSA takes its responsibility to the South African public very seriously. We are committed to operating in a transparent, efficient and fiscally responsible manner.”
Tilayi’s duties will be handled by acting COO Boetse Ramahlo.
Tilayi was one of three SAMSA executives suspended in 2021.
He was reinstalled in his role two years later, after being cleared of all corruption allegations against him.
“The board, having applied its collective mind to the various investigations and reports, unanimously agreed with recommendations of a senior counsel and, in line with these, we are pleased to announce the reinstatement of Tilayi as COO after a difficult period of absence,” SAMSA said at the time.
Tilayi has been contacted for comment.
