Pretoria - Acting National Commissioner, Lieutenant General Khomotso Phahlane, says he will respect and fully cooperate with any investigations against him in accordance with the laws of the country.
On Thursday, the police watchdog, Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) searched General Phahlane’s home in Pretoria north after they obtained a search warrant. They also interviewed him in relation to the alleged corruption investigation into him.
The general is accused of taking kickbacks to secure tenders for a company during his tenure as head of the police's forensics division.
It is alleged that the company purchased of a sound system for his home at a tune of R80 075.
However, General Phahlane provided the IPID investigators with the proof of payment for the sound system which he transferred personally to the shop in April 2012.
General Phahlane’s office confirmed that he met with IPID investigators and that they inspected his home.
“The meeting was in connection with allegations under investigation by IPID relating to alleged corruption and defeating the ends of justice,” spokesperson Brigadier Sally de Beer said.
Defeating the ends of justice case relates to allegations publicly made following an investigation and the interviewing of witnesses, led by Paul O’Sullivan accompanied by IPID investigators. O’Sullivan is the complainant in the alleged corruption case.
De Beer said the Acting National Commissioner undertook to respond in writing to questions raised by the IPID investigators in respect of the allegations made.
However, De Beer said it was regrettable that this investigation is being conducted through the media, characterised by the distortion of facts, disinformation and malice, including an insult on the integrity of the Acting National Commissioner and his family.
“The parading of the media at the Acting National Commissioner’s house, while he was being interviewed and served with the search warrant, and the level of disrespect and lack of courtesy by all involved has been noted by him with disgust and disappointment,” De Beer said.
The Acting National Commissioner has briefed his lawyers to take this matter forward.
His office has described the entire investigation as an assault on the character and integrity of the Acting National Commissioner aimed at irreparably damaging his reputation and taking his focus away from the execution of his duties.
“The Acting National Commissioner will not satisfy his detractors by succumbing to any undue pressure mounted against him.”
He assured that the SAPS will remain focused on the execution of its policing mandate and contribute towards the creation of a safe and secure environment for all. - SAnews.gov.za
