O’Sullivan explains South African citizenship amid mud-slinging

Forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan has expounded on his decision to obtain South African citizenship amid mud-slinging over his motives. O’Sullivan returned to parliament’s ad hoc committee on Thursday to conclude his testimony. His previous appearance was cut short due to health complications involving his back.

The committee is investigating allegations of corruption and undue interference within the criminal justice system. During his earlier testimony, O’Sullivan confirmed that though he was born in Ireland, he holds triple citizenship in South Africa, Ireland and the UK. This status became a focal point for the committee.

Addressing the claims he has operated as an operative for a foreign power, O’Sullivan emphasised his long-standing commitment to South Africa. “If I was a spy, I have not done a good job of keeping a low profile,” he said. “The reality is I have never been a foreign spy.

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I took the oath of allegiance in South Africa when I became a citizen in 1995.” The winds of change were taking place, and I could see South Africa was moving toward a democracy. I owned properties here, and I wanted to become part of that movement. He defended his record, saying: “I’ve spent 36 years of my life fighting crime in this country, not infiltrating organisations.

Nobody paid me. I did it because I wanted to make South Africa a better country for all. My records will show that.” The testimony drew sharp criticism from several committee members, most notably MK Party MP David Skosana.

A heated exchange ensued when Skosana questioned O’Sullivan’s motives for moving to the country. Skosana: “Did you move to South Africa so you could enjoy apartheid SA? Am I right to say that?” O’Sullivan: “The winds of change were taking place, and I could see South Africa was moving toward a democracy.

I owned properties here, and I wanted to become part of that movement.” O’Sullivan said he began investing in local real estate in the mid-1980s. When Skosana pressed him on his property holdings in other countries, O’Sullivan refused to answer, stating he was compelled to reveal his international assets.

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