Too early to comment on Phahlane investigation – Parly committee

Amid controversy over apparent dodgy dealings by Acting Police Commissioner Khomotso Phahlane, parliament’s oversight committee said it was too early to pronounce on his fate.

Chairperson of parliament’s portfolio committee on police Francois Beukman said on Wednesday that the  Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) was empowered “to undertake independent and impartial investigations of identified criminal offences allegedly committed by members of the SAPS and Municipal Police Services”.

Any criminal offences, once investigated, had to be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority, which would then notify the minister.

“It will be premature to comment on the specific case – in terms of process and merits – since the investigation/s is not yet completed and processed in terms of Section 7 (4). It is important that the provisions of Ipid Act, the Ipid regulations and standing operating procedures are adhered to promote accountability and transparency,” he said.

Phahlane stands accused of profiting from tenders relating to his position as head of the police’s forensic division.

His property has subsequently been searched and an R80,000 sound system, also an alleged bribe for the tenders awarded, has been isolated as suspicious.

DA MP Zak Mbhele said the party would shed more light on Phahlane’s alleged dealings in a briefing in parliament on Thursday.

“It is clear there are still some questions he needs to answer to…. [regarding] National forensics … [when] he was the commander there.

“There are clouds of doubt gathering… I’m not surprised,” Mbhele said.

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