Police committee calls for inquiry into Mkhwanazi claims
The chairperson of Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Police has called for a commission of inquiry into the integrity of the South African Police Service.
The call follows explosive allegations of political interference by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya.
Committee chair Ian Cameron briefed the media in Cape Town on Monday and urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to act quickly.
"The committee proposes the appointment of a commission, with a clear timeline, to urgently investigate the allegations. An external independent body to undertake lifestyle audits for all senior officers from brigadier level upwards. An independent body to undertake a vetting exercise on all senior SAPS officers.
"Reconfiguration of the Crime Intelligence environment to ensure only fit and proper individuals are employed in that environment and Skills audit of all senior managers within the SAPS."
The committee also wants adequate resourcing of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate.
Cameron said the allegations of political interference within SAPS indicate a systematic weakening of the police to enable corruption.
"The damning allegations have placed the necessary focus on the integrity of not only the police but the entire criminal justice system," he added.
"If true, it explains why the system has not been able to effectively arrest the ever-increasing criminality in the country.”
ALSO READ:
