Presidency 'Meddled' in Police Deployment?! KZN Top Cop Spills the Tea!
Johannesburg – Did the Presidency interfere with police operations in KwaZulu-Natal? That’s the explosive claim made by KZN Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi during his testimony before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
Mkhwanazi stated that Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) possesses influential contacts at the highest echelons of power. He revealed that he had initially deployed a specialised team to the Richards Bay area to combat the rampant murders plaguing the region.
However, after a year with no discernible progress, Mkhwanazi made the decision to recall the team. He cited the escalating costs associated with the deployment as a contributing factor.
Then came the bombshell. According to Mkhwanazi, National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola contacted him, relaying a complaint allegedly received from the Presidency. The Presidency, it was claimed, wanted the police team redeployed elsewhere.
This revelation has ignited a firestorm of debate, raising serious questions about potential undue influence and the separation of powers. The Madlanga Commission is expected to delve deeper into these allegations to determine the veracity of Mkhwanazi's claims and the extent of any presidential involvement.
Key takeaways from Mkhwanazi's Testimony:
- Mkhwanazi claims RBM has high-level contacts.
- He deployed a team to Richards Bay to address murders.
- The team was recalled after a year due to lack of progress and cost.
- He received a call from the National Police Commissioner relaying a complaint from the Presidency requesting the team's removal.
What's Next?
The Madlanga Commission will continue its investigation, likely summoning further witnesses and examining documentary evidence to corroborate or refute Mkhwanazi's testimony. The outcome of this inquiry could have significant implications for the integrity of law enforcement and the perception of political interference in South Africa.