Daphney Semakaleng Manamela, the suspended Mpumalanga Police Commissioner, has made serious allegations of political interference and corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS) leadership. Speaking at a media briefing, she claimed that former Police Minister Bheki Cele interfered in operational policing, pushing for arrests in politically sensitive cases.
Manamela also alleged that National Commissioner Fannie Masemola sidelined her and repeatedly avoided meetings, and when they eventually met, the room was bugged. She further claimed that millions of rands were spent on long-term hotel stays for senior officers in Mpumalanga and that key case dockets were centralized, disrupting investigations linked to political killings.
The most explosive claim is that Major General Moukangwe allegedly confessed that he and Masemola were paid R5 million by businessman Bobby Motaung to ensure Manamela doesn't return to work. Manamela linked this alleged arrangement to threats that if she returns, certain case dockets would be reopened, cases she connects to Jimmy Mohlala's death.
Manamela herself is suspended and facing allegations of maladministration, abuse of power, and misuse of state resources. The situation echoes earlier testimony by Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, which led to the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into political interference and organised crime within SAPS. No official response has addressed all allegations in detail.
The allegations have sparked outrage and calls for a thorough investigation. Opposition parties have demanded that the SAPS leadership take immediate action to address the allegations and ensure accountability. The National Police Commissioner, Fannie Masemola, has not yet responded to the allegations.
The implications of Manamela's claims are far-reaching, and the outcome of any investigation could have significant consequences for the SAPS and the country's fight against crime. The situation remains fluid, and developments are expected in the coming days.
Comments
Post a Comment