Sensitive information exchanged between senior officials in the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure may have been unlawfully intercepted.
As of March 2026, the matter has been formally reported to the Minister responsible for the State Security Agency for investigation.
What is happening?
Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, has confirmed that he and Director-General Mr Sifiso Mdakane reported concerns about possible unlawful interception of sensitive information between their offices.
The concerns were formally raised with Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, the Minister responsible for the State Security Agency (SSA).
According to the Minister, the suspected interceptions are believed to originate from within the Department itself. He stated that there is no indication that any organ or branch of the State is involved.
Macpherson described the matter as “extremely serious” and said the SSA is the appropriate authority to investigate.
Why it matters to you
The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure manages state property, leases, and infrastructure projects that affect communities across South Africa, including the Eastern Cape.
If internal systems are compromised, it may affect:
- Decision-making processes
- Protection of sensitive government information
- Public confidence in reforms
The Minister has linked the issue to ongoing reforms within the Department. Therefore, any internal interference could potentially disrupt restructuring efforts aimed at improving service delivery.
