Parliament's ad hoc committee investigating police corruption is hearing explosive testimony! SAPS Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Puleng Dimpane has made startling revelations regarding the disbandment of the political killings task team and allegations of corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Mchunu's Actions Under Scrutiny
Dimpane testified that suspended police minister Senzo Mchunu did not consult her before disbanding the task team, despite citing budget constraints as a primary reason. She emphasized that Mchunu misrepresented her information note, which called for SAPS restructuring, to justify the disbandment. "I [was] shocked when this information note was utilised as evidence and [tried] to portray a picture that I was advocating for the disbandment of the political task team. It is taken out of context," Dimpane stated.
Dimpane clarified that her concern was the lack of a permanent structure for the task team, which had been receiving repeated funding requests for five years, making proper budget planning impossible. She had suggested a work study to explore the possibility of making the task team a permanent structure within the SAPS.
Zero Tolerance for Corruption
In a strong message, Dimpane asserted that anyone involved in malfeasance or corruption within the police service must be held accountable, regardless of their rank. She emphasized that the law should take its course without fear or favour and those responsible for capturing the police must be held responsible.
Denial of Involvement in Tender Corruption
Dimpane also addressed allegations of tender corruption, stating that she did not participate in any tender adjudication committees and did not know Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, who is accused of tender corruption and is scheduled to appear before the committee. She faced intense questioning about her involvement in the awarding of tenders as the police's head of finance.
- Mchunu allegedly misrepresented Dimpane's information.
- Dimpane calls for accountability for police corruption.
- Task team funding issues highlighted.
The ad hoc committee continues its investigation, promising further revelations as it delves deeper into allegations of corruption and malfeasance within the SAPS. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.