The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) welcomes the South African Reserve Bank’s seizure of R67 million from Mr. Stephan Grobler, the former legal head of Steinhoff. 

This is a welcome and long overdue progressive step forward to recovering workers’ funds stolen during the biggest financial heist in South African history.  This follows similar important seizures of R60 million in cash and property from the late CEO of Steinhoff, Mr. Markus Jooste’s reported girlfriend.

We look forward to Mr. Grobler’s trial on fraud and racketeering.  It is critical that the National Prosecuting Authority ensure it is ready to secure a conviction and a substantial sentence for Mr. Grobler.

Whilst appreciating these seizures of ill-gotten gains, COSATU and workers have been deeply frustrated by the slaps on the wrist pitiful sentences secured to date.  It is time that justice is seen to be served and the guilty sent to long terms in prison and monies stolen from workers’ pension funds returned to their rightful owners.

Issued by COSATU

For further information please contact:

Matthew Parks(COSATU Parliamentary Coordinator)

Cell: 082 785 0687

Email: matthew@cosatu.org.za