By: Saneliso Mlambo
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has secured a Special Tribunal preservation order freezing two properties linked to former PRASA Group CEO Tshepo Lucky Montana as part of its investigation into the controversial R5.6 billion Integrated Security Access Management System (ISAMS) tender. The order prevents Montana from selling, transferring, leasing or otherwise dealing with the properties while civil recovery proceedings continue.
The properties include a R13.5 million home in Hurlingham, Johannesburg, and a R2.25 million property in Waterkloof, Pretoria. According to the SIU, investigators uncovered what they described as a “direct and uninterrupted money trail” linking funds used to purchase the properties to payments connected to PRASA’s ISAMS contract awarded to Siyangena Technologies, a subsidiary of TMM Holdings.
The SIU alleges that Montana’s legitimate income could not account for the acquisition of the two properties. Court papers state that investigators traced the funds through companies linked to TMM Holdings and Precise Trade and Invest 02 (Pty) Ltd before the properties were registered in Montana’s name. These are allegations made in the SIU’s civil case and remain subject to court proceedings.
The ISAMS project was introduced ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup to improve security and access control at railway stations. The initial contract awarded in 2011 was valued at nearly R2 billion, but through extensions and additional contracts, its value reportedly grew to more than R5.6 billion by 2016.
The Special Tribunal has ordered Montana and the other respondents to appear on 11 August 2026 to explain why the interim preservation order should not be made final. The SIU has also been directed to institute its main civil recovery proceedings within 30 days.
The SIU said the preservation order is aimed at safeguarding assets while it pursues the recovery of funds allegedly lost through corruption and maladministration. The unit also noted that any evidence suggesting criminal conduct uncovered during its investigation will be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for consideration.