WC Premier horrified gang-related crime could be due to infiltration of senior police officials

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde said that the thought that rampant gang-related crime in the province may be due to infiltration of senior police officials by organised criminals is horrifying.

The premier released the long-awaited police ombudsman's report into alleged gang infiltration within the province's police management.

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  In a 2022 bail appeal ruling, Western Cape High Court Judge Daniel Thulare suggested that members of the 28s gang may have influence over senior police officers in the province.
  
  The Ombudsman report has found that the allegations against a provincial police commissioner and his senior management were likely true.
  
  Winde said he's been reluctant to release the report to demonstrate good faith with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), and to protect those involved with the investigation.
  
  However, he said both parties have shown no sense of urgency in investigating Judge Thulare's comments.
  
  The premier said numerous suggestions for lifestyle audits of police officers have been rejected.
  
  "For years now, the national SAPS has been unwilling or unable to work with this government to solve the burning issue of gang-related crime that continues to devastate too many communities."

He's appealed to the provincial legislature to support the provincial cabinet to uncover the truth.

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