Doubts surround potential probe into allegations of police corruption

Questions are mounting over the likelihood and sincerity of any investigation into allegations raised by KZN police head General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, amid concerns about political bias and systemic corruption. 

Independent political analyst Joe Mhlanga expressed scepticism about the current political climate, suggesting that entrenched interests may compromise justice.

This was after Mkhwanazi made shocking claims alleging serious corruption involving a network of criminals, drug lords, police Minister Senzo Mchunu and National deputy police commissioner Shadrack Sibiya.

Mhlanga pointed to the broader pattern of impunity among those aligned with the president, citing the foreign currency hidden under the couches at Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala farm. 

“We might have seen the report from the Public Protector that cleared President Cyril Ramaphosa of any wrongdoing, but if you look at the laws, laws-particularly the banking regulations, and the facts surrounding the arrest of a young woman found with over a million US dollars, the picture becomes murky," stated Mhlanga.

“She was arrested around the same time President Ramaphosa was cleared of any misconduct, despite allegations that his house contained more foreign currency than legally permissible. This raises serious questions about the integrity of these investigations.”

“There’s a clear tendency for people close to him to avoid repercussions. If those around him continue to shield misconduct, it suggests that corruption is deeply rooted and unlikely to be addressed unless there’s a major shift.”

He further criticised the political establishment’s reliance on the police and justice mechanisms to protect allies rather than uphold the rule of law. 

“South African politicians seem to view the Ministry of Police as a tool to shield their own, rather than a public institution to serve justice. Appointments within the police, judiciary, and prosecutorial agencies appear based on loyalty rather than merit, making it almost impossible to hold powerful figures accountable.”

Mhlanga also highlighted concerns about President Ramaphosa’s pattern of appointing close allies to key positions. 

“He ensures that those in critical roles, including the Chief Justice, police chiefs, and NPA officials, are aligned with him. This significantly reduces the chances of any internal investigations leading to his downfall. It’s a cycle of protection that has persisted for years, with past leaders and officials similarly shielded from scrutiny.”

He warned that this systemic issue is unlikely to change unless there is a deliberate effort to break the cycle. 

“Given the history and current appointments, it’s clear that any investigation into Mchunu's actions will likely be managed and manipulated to produce a favourable outcome for him. The whole process seems orchestrated to prevent any real accountability.”

Meanwhile, the African People’s Convention (APC) has commended Mkhwanazi for his courageous stance against drug syndicates and political corruption within SAPS.

In a Monday statement, the APC lauded Mkhwanazi and his team for their unwavering commitment to putting citizens’ safety first. 

“By openly revealing that drug cartels are the cancer within SAPS, and implicating powerful political figures and parliamentarians, General Mkhwanazi demonstrates that some officers are willing to stand against corruption,” the statement read.

The party highlighted concerns over allegations that the Minister of Police is involved in undermining investigations, possibly to protect vested interests.

“The reported instructions to dismantle anti-crime units and the alleged links between the Minister and questionable entities point to a systemic capture of the police service,” the APC noted.

“This jeopardises the safety of our citizens and hampers efforts to fight crime effectively.”

The APC also stressed the importance of accountability. 

“There must be a thorough investigation into the Minister’s conduct, whether through parliamentary inquiries or a judicial commission. The serious allegations of misleading parliament and illicit funding require urgent attention.”

The party’s president, Themba Godi, who previously served as SCOPA chair, reaffirmed their support for officers like Mkhwanazi.

“His integrity and discipline reflect the true spirit of policing. It’s time for all citizens to support those in blue who risk their lives to defend justice and fight corruption.”

Ramaphosa’s spokesperson Vincent Mangwenya did not respond to questions from IOL.

thabo.makwakwa@inl.co.za

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