Tension between top police officials sparks investigation
The recent allegations of political interference within the South African Police Service (Saps) have caught the attention of the African Transformation Movement (ATM), prompting them to request an investigation by the Public Protector (PP).
The accusations stem from KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who has implicated Police Minister Senzo Mchunu in connections to criminal gangs and the disbandment of a unit responsible for handling politically motivated killings. Mchunu has vehemently denied these claims and has vowed to cooperate with any investigation.
In a formal letter to the PP’s office, ATM parliamentary leader Vuyo Zungula expressed the urgency of the situation, calling for a thorough investigation into what they believe to be a case of executive misconduct and abuse of power.
Mkhwanazi provides evidence
Zungula stated that the ATM has substantial evidence to support the allegations of corruption within the police service, including digital communication records, WhatsApp messages, voice recordings, financial documentation, and operational reports. These findings indicate a deliberate effort by the minister to obstruct ongoing investigations, protect criminal syndicates, and manipulate the criminal justice system for personal and political gain.
Disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team
The party has also called for an investigation into the disbandment of the task team responsible for investigating political killings, a decision made without proper consultation and resulting in the shelving of 121 case dockets linked to politically sensitive investigations. The dismantling of this team has raised concerns about the integrity of policing and justice in the country, with implications for justice for victims and emboldening criminal syndicates.
Magaqa’s hitman sentenced
The unfolding events coincide with the investigation into the murder of former ANC Youth League secretary-general Sondiso Magaqa in 2017. A perpetrator involved in Magaqa’s death has confessed to his role in the hit and has been sentenced to 25 years in prison. This development sheds light on the complex web of political involvement in criminal activities, further underscoring the need for a transparent and impartial investigation into the allegations of political interference within the police service.
