The President of the South African Football Association (SAFA), Danny Jordaan, was arrested on Wednesday amid serious allegations that he misappropriated funds belonging to the organization for personal use, as reported by local news outlets.
Danny Jordaan, who played a crucial role in securing South Africa’s hosting of the historic 2010 FIFA World Cup, had made attempts to secure a court order to prevent his arrest earlier in the week.
However, the Johannesburg High Court is not set to hear his application until Thursday, which effectively left him vulnerable to arrest on Wednesday.
The charges against him originate from a police investigation that included a raid on SAFA’s offices earlier this year, in March.
According to police spokesperson Katlego Mogale, the investigation revealed allegations that Jordaan abused his position from 2014 to 2018 by utilizing SAFA’s resources for his benefit. This includes hiring a private security firm for personal protection and contracting a public relations agency, all without the requisite authorization from SAFA’s governing board.
Jordaan, who is 73 years old, is facing these allegations alongside two others: Gronie Hluyo, the Chief Financial Officer of SAFA, and businessman Trevor Neethling. Both co-accused are also scheduled to appear in court later on the same day as Jordaan’s arrest.
As of now, there has been no official statement from either Jordaan or SAFA regarding the unfolding situation. However, in his legal affidavit submitted to the court, Jordaan has vehemently denied any misconduct or impropriety, asserting his innocence in the matter.
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