Top cop Masemola distances himself from Phala Phala report classification controversy

POLICE commissioner General Fannie Masemola yesterday said he did not know the classification of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate’s (IPID) report on its Phala-Phala investigation.

- MAYIBONGWE MAGHINA

Masemola also confirmed that Presidential Protection Services head Major-General Wally Rhoode has been cleared of wrongdoing after the conclusion of a disciplinary hearing into findings made against him by Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka two years ago.

Responding to questions in the parliamentary inquiry, Masemola said Rhoode was subjected to a disciplinary process with other police officers.

“The process ran its course. He was found not guilty,” he said.

MK Party MP Vusi Shongwe asked Masemola whether Rhoode was mandated to investigate the break-in on the farm of President Cyril Ramaphosa.

He said the Constitution empowers police to prevent, combat and investigate crime, among other things.

“Any member can do those functions if he knows that work. There is nothing wrong with that. Members do specialise. When in the VIP unit, it does not mean you can’t do any other function.”

Pressed whether any member could just investigate, Masemola said investigations are done by detectives.