In a shocking turn of events, South African soccer chief Danny Jordaan, a key figure in bringing the FIFA World Cup to Africa, has been arrested on charges of fraud and theft. The allegations against Jordaan involve the misuse of approximately R1.3 million ($72,372) of South African Football Association (SAFA) funds for personal gain.
Jordaan, who serves as the president of SAFA, is accused of using the association's funds to hire a PR firm and a private security company for his own benefit. This scandal has tarnished the reputation of a man who played a pivotal role in securing the rights to host the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
The arrest of Jordaan and two others, including an official and a businessman, follows a raid by the country's Special Investigating Unit at the SAFA offices in March. During the raid, electronic gadgets and files were seized as part of the ongoing investigation that ultimately led to the arrests.
The trio is expected to appear in the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court on Wednesday to face the charges brought against them. SAFA has remained silent on the matter, declining to provide any immediate comments or statements regarding the situation.
This development has sent shockwaves through the South African soccer community and beyond, as Jordaan's arrest marks a significant fall from grace for a man who once stood at the forefront of the country's soccer ambitions. The outcome of the legal proceedings will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for both Jordaan and the future of soccer governance in South Africa.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to AP Africa news.
