34 cops arrested and charged for various roles in political killings

Thirty-four police officers have been arrested and charged for various roles they played in cases of political killings.

This was revealed by National Police Commissioner Fanie Masemola during his testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry on Monday.

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Much of Masemola’s testimony was centred around the KwaZulu-Natal political killings task team, and how he felt the instruction by Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu to disband the unit was unlawful.

Brief evidence of how many cops were involved in cases of political killings were shared on screens during Monday’s sitting of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.

Masemola emphasised his support for the Political Killings Task Team, who he claims are “unmatched” in the work they do and the most successful task team the country has.

“It must be highlighted that 34 SAPS [South African Police Service] members were arrested and charged on various related charges, including being involved in the killings or defeating the course of justice on political related cases.”

During his testimony on Friday, KZN Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi alluded to this, regarding the murder of former African National Congress Youth League secretary general Sindiso Magaqa.

“The firearm that was used in the murder of Sindiso Magaqa and the vehicle that was used in the murder of Sindiso Magaqa are the resources that came from Crime Intelligence.”

Masemola will continue and conclude his testimony on Tuesday morning.