On Monday, chairperson of the Mitchell’s Plain Community Policing Forum, Hanif Loonat hosted a press briefing in response to his recent ousting from his position. Loonat was last week released as CPF chairperson during the monthly cluster meeting by Provincial CPF chairperson, Andrew Lyon. In a letter tabled at the meeting, Loonat was accused of being a police informant and for having been manipulative in his use of the media, allegations that he denies.
During his briefing, Loonat alluded to corruption and political interference within Western Cape CPF clusters, confirming that he will ‘name names’ in his appeal.
Speaking to VOC News, Loonat stated that he is aware of gang influence within the CPF and their alleged influece and control of various clusters.
“I also have reason to believe that there are certain South African Police Service (SAPS) members who are complicit in this plot to remove me,” Loonat stated as he recalled previous attempts at his removal.
He stated that at the meeting on January 25, 2017, in which he was ousted, SAPS legal representatives advised Lyon that proper procedures had not been followed, rendering Loonat’s dismissal unconstitutional and illegal.
“He then tabled the letter that is now public knowledge, which was a prepared letter stating the allegations against me.”
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Loonat added that he was not provided the right of reply on the allegations tabled in the meeting.
“Because the matter was caucused, Mr. Lyon disallowed the content of the document to be discussed.”
Speaking at the offices of the Lentegeur Police Station, the ousted chairperson was supported by residents and CPF members, all whom are calling for his reinstatement.
Loonat showed evident emotion as those present recalled personal memories of his fight against crime within the Cape.
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Citing concerns of inadequate police presence and support, residents have noted what they describe as Loonat’s uninterrupted service within the community.
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Also present, Loonat’s son, Tahir Hanif Loonat, stated that while he is overwhelmed by the support that his father is recieving, he is angered by the treatment that he is receiving following years of service to the community.
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