A multiparty parliamentary ethics committee found the shamed former minister guilty of improper conduct and the Hawks has confirmed that it is currently investigating the former minister of communications for corruption.
"The investigation for corruption has been under way for just over a month. There is definitely a case against her and we should have something on her soon, but at this stage we cannot give a date of when we will conclude," said Hawks spokesperson Captain Paul Ramaloko.
He confirmed that there have been no objections or challenges so far that can hinder the case moving forward. Pule is the only person being investigated for now, but any other individuals found to be linked to her acts will be investigated.
The case falls under the Serious Economic Offences Unit in Pretoria.
Pule was found guilty this week of causing improper benefits to be afforded to Phosane Mngqibisa on the basis of his relationship with her. She received a reprimand from the Speaker, a fine equivalent to her 30-day salary and was suspended from all parliamentary committees for 15 days.
Democratic Alliance (DA) MP and shadow minister of science and technology Marian Shinn requested that the SAPS investigate Pule, Mngqibisa, SABC chief financial officer Gugu Duda and SABC group chief executive Lulama Mokhobo in April.
Pace frustration
Shinn is not happy with the pace of the investigation. "When the Hawks took up the case in July, they assured me that one of the first things the investigating officer would do is to call me for more information. That has not happened yet. I will be following up on this and will need feedback," she said.
"But we trust that the investigation will proceed with energy, without interference and with full co-operation from those involved."
DA chief whip Watty Watson this week called for Pule to be suspended from Parliament, not hugged and given a slap on the wrist.
"It is inexplicable, however, why Dina Pule has not been subjected to a disciplinary process from within the ANC, and accordingly lost her membership and her seat. The manner in which the chief whip and numerous ministers displayed support for Dina Pule in the House indicates they intend to only give her a slap on the wrist," said Watson.