Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has said the provincial government is ready to cooperate with the Judicial Commission of Inquiry investigating allegations of political interference in police operations involving KZN Police Commissioner, Lt-Gen. Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

During a media briefing held in Johannesburg on Thursday, Lesufi told journalists that the government would not let the claims lie low without action.

The premier also revealed that he spoke to Gauteng Commissioner Tommy Mthombeni on the allegations and asked for an update.

“We are the only province where three of our metros have been specifically identified by the president when announcing the commission of inquiry that municipalities of Tshwane, Ekurhuleni and Johannesburg need to prepare,” he said.

Lesufi’s remarks come after Mkhwanazi dropped a bombshell about SAPS top brass, including Minister Senzo Mchunu, the judiciary, correctional services, and metropolitan police, being allegedly involved in heavy criminal syndicates, including drug cartels.

There are also accusations of political interference in the police department.

But Lesufi emphasised that they will fully cooperate with, and support the commission where necessary.

“We will cooperate fully, we want to prepare thoroughly, but most importantly, we want to ensure that the Commission achieves its objective of getting the evidence that is needed or is looking for.

“But also of getting the information on who will respond to what South Africans are looking for on whether these allegations are true,” he said.

He added that this would also reveal if there were rogue elements within the province that could be potentially involved in the alleged crimes.

“We will be ready to cooperate and provide valuable information to the commission.”

President Cyril Ramaphosa has since placed Mchunu on special leave to allow investigations into his alleged involvement in crime.

kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za

IOL Politics

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