By Odwa Mkentane
The Public Servants Association (PSA) has called on the National Treasury to allocate sufficient funding to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) to ensure that its investigators are properly equipped and supported. This comes after suspended Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi and Witness K, who previously testified before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, were added as accused in the alleged R15-million precious stones robbery case.
The pair appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court on Monday, where they were each granted unopposed bail of R5,000. The matter was postponed to 25 August to allow for further investigation.
In a media statement, the Public Servants Association said it remains extremely concerned about the longstanding resource constraints affecting IPID investigators.
“Effective oversight of police conduct requires investment in skilled personnel, modern investigative equipment, enhanced forensic capabilities, and adequate operational support systems. Without adequate resources, the IPID’s ability to respond effectively to increasingly sophisticated criminal activities may be compromised.
South Africans deserve an independent, well-resourced, and empowered IPID capable of holding all law enforcement officials accountable and ensuring that justice is applied fairly and consistently. The PSA will continue advocating for the strengthening of the IPID and for conditions that enable investigators to serve the public effectively, protect constitutional democracy, and uphold the rule of law.”
Photo: Sourced/PSA
