Ipid, Hawks to split probe into Phala Phala theft, cover-up
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) says it will
limit the scope of its investigation into the Phala Phala saga to the conduct
of police officers.
This while the Hawks will continues to probe allegations of defeating the ends of justice and kidnapping during the alleged cover-up of the theft of foreign currency from President Cyril Ramaphosa’s farm in Limpopo.
In a statement on Wednesday, the police watchdog said this is to avoid a duplication of government resources.
The investigation stems from a criminal complaint laid by former spy boss Arthur Fraser around the theft of money from the president’s farm in 2020.
Fraser accused police officers of taking illegal action to find the suspects and retrieve the stolen cash.
Ipid spokesperson Lizzy Suping said the investigation follows a request by the African Transformation Movement (ATM).
“The decision to spilt the probe followed an in-depth analysis of the African Transformation Movement request to investigate the conduct of the police regarding the Phala Phala farm matter.
“Ipid has established that the complaint from the party was based on the statement of Arthur Fraser which has been circulating in the media space.
“Ipid will pronounce on the outcome when the investigation is complete. The ATM party has also been made aware of the decision taken by Ipid,” Suping said.
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