Masemola on suspending his deputy, Sibiya: 'Let it be adjudicated at court'
In July, national Police Commissioner Masemola directed his deputy, Shadrack Sibiya, to take a leave of absence after KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi alleged he diverted political killings dockets to his office, where they were allegedly neutralised.
FILE: National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola. Picture: Katlego Jiyane/EWN
JOHANNESBURG - National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola said he will not respond to claims by his deputy, Shadrack Sibiya, that he acted unlawfully by placing him on leave.
Speaking on the sidelines of a R420 million drug destruction operation in Gauteng, Masemola said he will allow the courts to determine the matter.
The comments come as the police service faces intense scrutiny over leadership battles and questions of accountability.
In July, Masemola directed Sibiya to take a leave of absence after KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi alleged he diverted political killings dockets to his office, where they were allegedly neutralised.
Sibiya has taken the matter to court, arguing the decision was unfair and unlawful.
The legal dispute plays out as the Madlanga Commission is due to begin probing allegations of corruption and criminal infiltration across law enforcement and the justice system.
The outcome of the court battle is expected to impact stability within the police’s top leadership.
Masemola said there are no intentions to make it a public spectacle.
“It will be ventilated in court. So, let’s not create another platform to adjudicate on it here, now, on the streets. Let it be adjudicated at court, at the right place where it is supposed to happen."
Masemola said his focus remains on fighting crime across the country.