Michael Lomas, a fugitive linked to the massive Eskom corruption case, has landed in South Africa after being extradited from the UK.
Story Summary:
- Michael Lomas, accused of Eskom corruption, was extradited from the UK and arrived in South Africa today.
- Lomas appeared frail, arriving in a wheelchair, and is being monitored closely due to mental health concerns.
- The suspect faces multiple charges related to a R745 million corruption scheme at Eskom’s Kusile Power Station.
Watch: Michael Lomas lands in South Africa
Lomas, who is facing 41 charges of fraud and corruption related to an R745 million contract at Eskom’s Kusile Power Station, arrived at OR Tambo International Airport under strict supervision.
The 77-year-old appeared visibly weak and was seen in a wheelchair as he was escorted by SAPS Interpol officers.
The extradition of Lomas marks a significant development in South Africa’s efforts to prosecute those involved in the corruption scandal that has plagued the country’s power utility.
His return follows an August 2024 ruling by a London court, which rejected his attempt to block the extradition due to mental health concerns.
Lomas, who has battled depression and anxiety, was described as a suicide risk during the court proceedings.
However, the court determined that South African authorities had adequate measures in place to ensure his health and safety.
What is he accused of?
Lomas, a former contractor at Eskom, is accused of being part of a fraudulent scheme that manipulated contracts at the Kusile Power Station between 2008 and 2018.
The allegations stem from his involvement in a R745 million contract awarded to Tubular Construction Projects, a company at the centre of the Eskom scandal.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) has accused Lomas and his co-conspirators of rigging tenders to ensure Tubular Construction was unfairly awarded contracts.
These contracts were part of the massive Kusile project, one of the country’s largest energy projects, but have been marred by allegations of mismanagement and corruption.
“Lomas was a key figure in the illegal awarding of tenders that defrauded Eskom of hundreds of millions of rand,” explained SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe.
Investigators believe Lomas fled South Africa in 2021 after being granted bail of R1.7 million. Despite submitting an additional surety of R4.3 million, he failed to appear for trial, prompting his arrest in London later that year.
Along with other high-ranking officials, including former Eskom senior manager France Hlakudi and ex-Eskom executive Abram Masango, Lomas is facing charges of fraud, corruption, and money laundering.
