IDAC head faces chilling death threat during corruption inquiry

INDEPENDENT Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) head, advocate Andrea Johnson, recounted chilling details regarding a death threat she received.

- MAYIBONGWE MAGHINA

During her appearance at the parliamentary inquiry probing allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi on Thursday, Johnson revealed that a message was sent to her phone, telling her to get body bags as she and her team had gone too far.

“In my almost 30 years, it was the first time it happened to me directly, and given that we have dealt with contentious and high-profile matters over the years.

“This was different and very difficult. The threat still remains, which makes it more difficult” she said.

Johnson expressed that the threat forced her to confront the harsh realities of her work.

“The fight against corruption is not for sissies and so you can't be weak in this fight.”

She has not thought of the prospect of abandoning her position despite the threat to her life.

“What I can't do is to step away from this work.

“If I step away, who takes over, and what happens to the person who takes over?” she asked.

Johnson said the death threat had made her more wary and more alive, stating that people had been taken out.

“You read about it, you and say this issue is absolutely terrible. When it comes at you directly, it really makes you pause.