An internal police report has contradicted claims by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi that investigations into political killings were being deliberately delayed. Mkhwanazi had alleged that case dockets from a special task team were “gathering dust” in the office of Deputy National Commissioner Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya, suggesting possible interference at the national level.
However, the internal report indicates that the task team has been actively working on the cases, with regular updates recorded as investigations progress. This challenges Mkhwanazi’s assertion that the cases were being neglected.
The disagreement has heightened tensions within the South African Police Service (SAPS). Mkhwanazi’s public remarks had raised concerns about political meddling and accountability in high-profile cases. Now, with the internal report presenting a different account, doubts have emerged about the accuracy of his claims.
The conflict comes as a judicial commission of inquiry continues examining political violence in KwaZulu-Natal. The discrepancy between Mkhwanazi’s statements and the official report is likely to spark further debate, leaving the public questioning which version of events is correct.
As the dispute unfolds, scrutiny on SAPS leadership is expected to grow, with South Africans awaiting clarity on whether investigations are being properly handled or if there are deeper issues at play.