Johannesburg - The new Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (DPCI) has sent a stern warning to criminals that it's ready to "crush the backbone of organised crime" without favour when it becomes operational on 1 July.
In an exclusive interview with BuaNews, the new head of the unit, Commissioner Anwa Dramat warned criminals that they would "remorsefully regret" their acts.
"Our mandate is simple - crush organised crime without mercy. Deal with criminals regardless of their stature or standing. We are ready to execute this task," said Commissioner Dramat, speaking at the event to celebrate the second anniversary of the Crime Line initiative in Johannesburg on Tuesday.
The Western Cape Police Deputy Commissioner was appointed last month by Minister of Police, Nathi Mthethwa, to head the new unit which has replaced the National Prosecuting Authority's (NPA) Directorate of Special Operations, also known as the Scorpions.
Commissioner Dramat said the unit was strong, capable and well-resourced to hunt any criminal, anywhere and at any time.
"We are resourcing the unit to ensure that fellow South Africans can enjoy their hard earned liberty without fear of criminals and international syndicates. We are hopeful that criminals will start to realise our ability not only to bite but also to chew," he said.
He said that between 600 and 800 former members of the South African Police Service's Commercial Branch, Scorpions, Home Affairs and South African Revenue Services will swell the ranks of the unit to prepare for battle against crime.
The Commissioner said so far these former units, under the command of a Joint Task Team, have done a sterling job in finalising all outstanding matters such as case audits, personnel matters, budgets and in preparing for the launch.
In February, former President Kgalema Motlanthe signed the SAPS Amendment Act and Section 43 of the National Prosecuting Authority Amendment Act which allowed for the establishment of the unit and the transitional arrangements related to the Scorpions.
Commissioner Dramat said both the DSO and the SAPS embarked on a process to ascertain the number of employees who would consent to transferring to the new unit.
"The vast majority of members consented to migrate even though few other members are still leaving their options open," he said.
He added that he was satisfied with the current members and that they were all ready to enter the battlefield as soon as President Jacob Zuma made the necessary proclamation which is expected on 1 July.
Meanwhile, Commissioner Dramat commended Prime Media for their Crime Line initiative and its work in combating crime.
