JOHANNESBURG — National Police Commissioner Masemola has firmly denied claims that he shut down the high-profile task team investigating political killings in South Africa. His remarks come amid mounting allegations of interference and secrecy within law enforcement structures.
The commissioner addressed the media on Wednesday following shocking allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi just days earlier. Mkhwanazi had claimed there was political meddling in police investigations and that critical case files were removed from the team without proper justification.
Masemola, however, rejected these claims outright, maintaining that he had no involvement in dissolving the task team and was unaware of any official communication indicating such a decision.
Commissioner Insists No Closure Was Signed Off
During the briefing, Masemola was clear in his response. “I have never seen any letter which I signed off the closure,” he told reporters, distancing himself from any formal action that would have disbanded the political killings task team.
The commissioner’s statement appears to counter the narrative presented by Mkhwanazi, who pointed to directives allegedly issued by Deputy National Commissioner for Crime Detection, Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya. According to Mkhwanazi, these instructions were based on the orders of the Police Minister himself.
A total of 125 case dockets were reportedly taken from the task team as a result of this alleged directive, raising concerns over transparency and accountability in politically sensitive investigations.
Claims of Political Interference Stir Public Concern
Mkhwanazi’s allegations have ignited a debate about the independence of the police service in politically motivated crimes. He told the media that political interference has hampered critical investigations, undermining efforts to bring justice in cases of political violence.
His bold statements prompted widespread reaction, both from within the police and civil society, calling for an inquiry into the claims. With trust in the system at stake, the matter has cast a shadow over how seriously political killings are being addressed in South Africa.
Masemola’s rebuttal, however, signals a broader division within police leadership on how these cases are being handled and who holds authority over major decisions.
Mkhwanazi’s Safety Now a Priority
Masemola confirmed that security measures for Commissioner Mkhwanazi have been increased in light of his public revelations. “We have beefed up his protection,” Masemola said, suggesting that Mkhwanazi’s safety could now be at risk.
While he did not go into detail about the threats or nature of the danger, the decision underscores the gravity of the situation and the tensions within the police hierarchy.
The political killings task team was initially formed to tackle the rising wave of politically motivated assassinations, especially in provinces like KwaZulu-Natal. Disruptions to its function, whether official or not, have raised alarms among communities and watchdogs demanding action.
