WC SAPS management declined opportunity to respond to claims senior cops influenced by gangs - ombudsman

The Western Cape police ombudsman says SAPS management had an opportunity to respond to allegations that senior police officers were influenced by gangs but declined to do so.

However, Western Cape SAPS said that provincial commissioner, Lieutenant-General Thembisile Patekile, cooperated with the ombudsman, Major-General Oswald Reddy's office, throughout the investigation.

A confidential report by the ombudsman released this week revealed that allegations against a Western Cape police commissioner and his senior management were likely true.

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The Western Cape government filed a complaint with the ombudsman in October 2022 following a bail appeal ruling by high court Judge Daniel Thulare, which referenced possible infiltration of police management in the province by the 28s gang.

The police ombud said he immediately notified the provincial commissioner and his management to inform them they were conducting an investigation.

However, Reddy said that he was met with red tape when he afforded the police commissioner an opportunity to clear his name.

"It is unfortunate that they elected not to comment directly, although they did give us a response. The response indicated that the has referred the matter to the state attorney for comment."

Police spokesperson Andre Traut insists Patekile cooperated with Reddy and is committed to working with oversight and investigative bodies to protect the integrity of policing in the province.

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