Parliament’s ad hoc committee investigating allegations of criminal infiltration and political interference in the police will tomorrow hear oral evidence from former Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) head Robert McBride. McBride’s appearance is significant due to his role in overseeing investigations into police misconduct. His testimony is expected to address systemic failures and allegations of undue influence in operational matters.
The committee has been tasked with examining claims raised by KwaZulu-Natal provincial commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi regarding the penetration of criminal cartels into police ranks. Committee chair Soviet Lekganyane confirmed that McBride will be questioned on Tuesday and Wednesday, noting that “we have a very busy week with Mr McBride coming here on Tuesday and Wednesday. Julius Mkhwanazi is coming on Thursday and Friday.” McBride’s presence before parliament carries weight because of his long and contested career in law enforcement.
He went on to serve as chief of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police before being appointed head of Ipid, where he led high-profile investigations into police corruption and misconduct. His tenure at Ipid was marked by clashes with senior police officials and political leaders, reflecting his reputation as a fearless investigator and a controversial figure. The committee’s evidence leader, advocate Norman Arendse, has already briefed members on logistical challenges in securing witness participation, including concerns raised by Brown Mogotsi about legal representation and personal security.
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The committee has agreed to initial virtual consultations in Mogotsi’s case, while continuing discussions on an in-person appearance. McBride’s testimony follows that of former acting commissionerKhomotso Phahlaneand intelligence headDumisani Khumalo, who last week alleged that police officers in Gauteng were “in the pockets of the crime cartel or moonlighting for syndicates”. Phahlane told MPs that political interference in police structures has been rife since the ANC’s 52nd national conference in Polokwane, situating the inquiry within a broader historical context of contested executive authority over policing.
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