National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola addressed the media virtually, confirming threats to KZN's Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and assuring the public that he will not face persecution. Image: SAPS
(The Post News)- On Wednesday, SAPS National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola confirmed that KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has received threats to his life, prompting authorities to strengthen his personal security.
Mkhwanazi has become a central figure in national discourse after making serious allegations on Sunday against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, Deputy National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya, and other senior officials, accusing them of political interference and corruption.
Speaking to journalists during a virtual media briefing from a facility in Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng, Masemola addressed the growing concerns around the safety and standing of the provincial commissioner.
When asked whether disciplinary action would be taken against Mkhwanazi, Masemola said he is awaiting direction from President Cyril Ramaphosa. However, he made it clear that no persecution would occur.
“In terms of physical protection, he has been getting threats to his life in that province. We have beefed up his security, but he won’t be persecuted from my side, surely there will be no persecution of any member of the South African Police Service,” Masemola stated.
He further affirmed that Mkhwanazi was within his rights to speak out, dismissing claims that the commissioner had breached SAPS protocol. “General Mkhwanazi was acting within his terrain,” Masemola said, underlining that provincial commissioners have the authority to communicate with the public on security issues.
“He has the right to inform the public about challenges affecting the safety of our citizens.”
Masemola also spoke directly to the threats against Mkhwanazi, reiterating his support. “I have beefed up General Mkhwanazi’s security. He is a dedicated officer committed to fighting crime, and I will not allow anyone to intimidate him.”
The developments follow Mkhwanazi’s explosive claims that the police minister, allegedly working with Sibiya, orchestrated the disbanding of the political killings task team in KwaZulu-Natal and ordered sensitive case dockets to be removed and secured under lock and key at Sibiya’s Pretoria offices.
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