MCHUNU’S CHIEF-OF-STAFF SUSPECIOUS OF ITEMS ‘SEIZURE’ BEFORE COMMISSION!
The Chief-of-Staff to Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, Cedrick Nkabinde, has raised serious concerns over what he describes as “intimidation tactics” by senior police officials.
Nkabinde briefed the media on Thursday in response to allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, claiming that top officials are attempting to undermine the integrity of ongoing investigations.
Nkabinde confirmed that electronic devices, including cellphones and laptops, were confiscated during a recent operation allegedly authorized by National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola and Lt Gen Mkhwanazi.
He questioned the timing of the seizure, pointing out that it came just days before he and Minister Mchunu are expected to appear before both the Madlanga Commission and Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee on Police Affairs.
“The timing is highly suspicious,” Nkabinde remarked.
“We are preparing to present crucial evidence before the Madlanga Commission and the parliamentary committee – evidence that sheds light on deep-rooted issues within the police service. Suddenly, our devices are taken. This raises serious questions about motive.”
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, appointed earlier this year, is investigating allegations of misconduct and abuse of power among senior officials within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Its proceedings have already seen heated testimony from several provincial commissioners, including Mkhwanazi.
Nkabinde said he remains confident in his innocence and called on the National Commissioner to respect institutional processes instead of attempting to influence them.
“I have committed no crime. All I ask is that the process be allowed to unfold without interference. The police leadership must respect the law just as every citizen is expected to,” he said.
He also accused certain individuals within the SAPS of attempting to intimidate and discredit him and the minister through targeted actions.
“While some generals are testifying in official proceedings, they are at the same time sending officers to harass me and the minister. It is unacceptable and damaging to the credibility of the service,” Nkabinde stated.
As the Madlanga Commission continues its hearings, tensions within the police leadership appear to be intensifying, exposing deep divisions at the top of the country’s law enforcement hierarchy. – Additional reporting by Newzroom Afrika and SABC
