The inquiry continues to probe allegations of interference in the country’s police operations and the judiciary. The latest expert shed light on the murder of Engineer Armand Swart, who was shot 23 times outside his company’s premises in April last year, in what authorities have described as a case of mistaken identity.
The hearing follows a dramatic week of revelations, with suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and former Minister Bheki Cele appearing before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee investigating criminal infiltration and political interference within the criminal justice system.
Speaking to Channel Africa, Crime Expert Professor Jacob Mofokeng said the testimonies heard so far have exposed deep-seated corruption within the SA Police Service.
“At the Madlanga Commission, we heard from several witnesses detailing the extent of corruption and manipulation within SAPS,” Mofokeng said. “There were mentions of senior officials allegedly tampering with ballistic reports to conceal links between firearms and specific crimes. This shows the serious efforts made to undermine justice.”
He added that the inquiry also heard evidence about high-ranking officers visiting convicted criminals after hours and interfering in ongoing investigations.
Turning to Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee, Mofokeng said the testimonies of Mchunu and Cele highlighted the leadership crisis in policing and the broader justice system.
“Mchunu could not provide clear answers regarding his actions, but Cele filled in many of the gaps,” Mofokeng noted. “It’s clear the criminal justice system is in crisis, and while there are claims of judicial capture, it’s crucial that evidence supports these assertions.”
Commenting on the recent apology issued by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi to Cele, Mofokeng said it reflected “a recognition of human error” amid attempts to expose wrongdoing.
“These inquiries are important because they reveal the extent to which political interference may be undermining the rule of law,” he said. “But we must approach every claim with caution until the evidence is fully presented.”
–ChannelAfrica–
