Madlanga Commission fallout: Task team probes police corruption with NPA guidance

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has deployed state prosecutors to permanently form part of a task team appointed to investigate individuals implicated in the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.

The team was established to probe police officers accused of wrongdoing at the inquiry and Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee probing police corruption.

In its interim report, the Madlanga Commission recommended investigations and possible prosecution of five SAPS officers and nine Ekurhuleni Metro Police officers.

With the task team now zeroing in on those implicated, the NPA has joined the unit to ensure prosecution-led investigations.

Addressing a media briefing in Pretoria on Friday, NPA head Andy Mothibi emphasised that allocating prosecutors to the task team will ensure the probe into implicated officers leads to prosecution.

"This model is designed to ensure swift and effective investigations that sees prosecutors and investigators working closely and managing investigations, which should culminate in prosecution," Mothibi said.

He added that specialised units within the NPA will also be roped in.

"A related aspect, among others, would be the involvement of the Asset Forfeiture Unit. So, members of the Asset Forfeiture Unit will also be allocated to the task team. There is a high possibility that as the investigation unfolds, there will be a need of intervention by the Asset Forfeiture Unit."