South African Official Accuses Police Minister of Crime Syndicate Collusion

South African Official Accuses Police Minister of Crime Syndicate Collusion

A high-ranking South African security official has made shocking allegations against the police minister and a deputy national commissioner, accusing them of collaborating with organized crime.

Key Allegations

General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the police chief of KwaZulu-Natal, publicly claimed that Senzo Mchunu and Shadrack Sibiya interfered with sensitive police investigations. He further alleged they dismantled a unit investigating politically motivated killings after discovering crime syndicates were involved.

Mkhwanazi's investigation purportedly revealed that politicians, law enforcement, and even members of the judiciary are controlled by drug cartels and business figures. He claims to possess evidence to support these serious charges.

National Response

South Africa grapples with a high crime rate, and corruption allegations within the police force are not uncommon. However, such direct accusations between top officials are rare. Mchunu has vehemently denied the claims as baseless.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has promised to address the allegations upon his return from the Brics Leaders' Summit in Brazil, recognizing the potential damage to public trust. The African National Congress has expressed serious concern, and the Institute for Security Studies emphasizes the need for a thorough investigation to maintain public confidence in the police.