Former Eskom contractor extradited to South Africa over R745m corruption case

Michael Lomas, a former Eskom contractor, has been extradited from the United Kingdom to South Africa to face charges in a R745-million (approximately £31 million) fraud and corruption case related to the Kusile power plant.

Lomas arrived at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Friday, where he was seen being escorted by police in a wheelchair. He was wearing a neck brace, indicating health concerns.

Lomas was arrested in the UK in 2021 at the request of South African authorities. His extradition was successfully argued for in 2022 by South Africa’s Investigating Directorate. The case involves alleged fraudulent payments of R745 million to Tubular Construction Projects. Lomas will stand trial alongside former Eskom managers and other business figures.

National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed that a medical doctor accompanied Lomas on the flight as part of the extradition conditions.

This high-profile case highlights South Africa’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption in state-owned enterprises.