Minister cleans up in Saps

CHANGES: CRIME INTELLIGENCE RECRUITING FROZEN, POLITICAL KILLINGS TASK TEAM DISBANDED

- Thando Nondywana

« People were wrongfully charged to cover up for politicians-expert.

Police Minister Senzo Mchunu's decision to halt recruitment within crime intelligence and disband the KwaZulu-Natal political killings task team has been hailed, with some viewing it as a crucial step toward reforming the law enforcement system.

The measures will form part of broader efforts to address systemic inefficiencies and enhance accountability in the police service.

Senior researcher at the Institute for Security Studies Willem Els noted that the crime intelligence division has long struggled with internal dysfunction and ineffectiveness.

"The police, particularly Crime Intelligence, have faced criticism for their lack of capacity and allegations of being 'captured' by individuals who compromised the system.

"One such individual is currently facing court proceedings. This capture left crime intelligence almost toothless, with severely compromised structures and operations," Els said.

He added that reversing the situation would be challenging as many individuals appointed during the problematic period remain in key positions.

"We know there are allegations around a certain General accused of mismanagement and much of the leadership has been compromised or accused of poor management.

"So the minister has requested an assessment and paused all appointments until a clear strategy is developed which will get to root of the problems," he said.