South African Parliamentary Committee to Broaden Probe into Police and Crime Intelligence

A parliamentary committee investigating allegations by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has decided to also examine instability within the Crime Intelligence division of the South African Police Service (SAPS). This decision followed a debate on whether this fell within the committee’s scope.

Some members, including ANC chief whip Mdumiseni Ntuli, argued that investigating Crime Intelligence should be left to the specialized Joint Standing Committee on Intelligence. Ntuli stated that such a probe requires deep familiarity with the unit’s actual work, not just its general nature. The Patriotic Alliance agreed, suggesting the committee should maintain a tight focus on the original allegations.

However, the MK Party, DA, EFF, and IFP argued that the committee must investigate all parts of Mkhwanazi’s allegations, which include references to Crime Intelligence. EFF leader Julius Malema stated that the committee cannot ignore this aspect of the Commissioner’s claims.

Ultimately, the committee resolved to expand its investigation to include the instability within Crime Intelligence, ensuring a comprehensive review of the allegations.