Dear Editor
The Ad-hoc Committee of Parliament, into allegations of political meddling and corruption in the SAPS, considered robust terms of reference to ensure full and proper investigation can take place. The Committee hopes to adopt the terms of reference by Monday.
The DA proposed and secured the following key terms being included:
- The use of sworn testimony,
- Obtaining documents, and evidence from all relevant witnesses, including those implicated in political interference, corruption, and organised crime infiltration of SAPS,
- Investigating political interference in policing, including the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) and the freezing of key crime intelligence vacancies,
- Investigating allegations involving senior politicians, law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and judges,
- Investigating the 121 missing dockets removed from the PKTT and examine the integrity of SAPS crime intelligence operations.
- Investigating whether SAPS management has acted appropriately when confronted with evidence of rot in the past,
- Examining organised crime syndicates and drug cartels alleged infiltration of the justice system, and its links to political, law enforcement, and business figures.
- Reviewing whistleblower protections, ensuring all witnesses are safeguarded from intimidation or retaliation.
- Confirming hearings are to be public and open, except where security or witness safety demands closed sessions.
Once adopted, the the Ad-hoc Committee must get down to business.
Three weeks have already passed since the Ad-hoc Committee was established, but proceedings have been marked by disorganisation and no clear roadmap for the work ahead.
The DA sees this committee as a most vital and rare opportunity to confront and root out the rot at the top of SAPS.
The DA will use this committee to leave no stone unturned. We will demand testimony from every relevant and involved person and documents that evidence every critical weakness in the SAPS
South Africa cannot tolerate delays when the integrity of its policing and justice systems hangs in the balance.
Citizens deserve an urgent, credible process, not delays and chaos, when the integrity of our police service is on the line.
Regards
Ian Cameron MP
DA Spokesperson on Police