By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
8 July 2025- The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) said it has taken note of the recent public revelations made by the South African Police Services’ (SAPS) KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi against the entire value chain of the criminal justice system. POPCRU said while it acknowledges the gravity and extensive nature of the information shared, which touches on matters central to the internal operations and integrity of law enforcement structures, it notes with seriousness the implications these disclosures may have on the broader stability and credibility of the country’s security architecture.
POPCRU spokesperson, Richard Mamabolo said they are of the firm view that the safety and security of South Africans must never be compromised. Mamabolo said this moment demands responsible leadership, maturity and transparency, not public spectacle or factional posturing.
“It is precisely during moments like these that the nation must rally behind principles of accountability, justice, and institutional integrity. As matters stand, the public discourse is increasingly dominated by accusations and counter-accusations, many of which risk derailing the legitimate concerns that should instead be addressed through competent and independent processes.
“We therefore call for calm and caution against such speculation. The criminal justice system should be shielded from any interference, and mechanisms of oversight must be allowed to function, leading to a process that will result in facts being placed in the open,” he said.
Mamabolo further said POPCRU remains confident that, upon his return to the country, the Republic of South Africa (RSA) president Cyril Ramaphosa, will exercise his constitutional duty as Head of State and the Commander-In-Chief of all armed forces to ensure this matter is urgently prioritised. He added that it is essential that no stone be left unturned in determining the full scope of the issues raised, holding those found responsible accountable, and restoring public confidence in SAPS leadership.
“We call on all members to remain committed to upholding the rule of law under extremely challenging conditions, to continue the fight against crime and corruption and to ensure the environments they work under are not compromised. As POPCRU, we reaffirm our commitment to defending the dignity of all officers who serve with honour and discipline,” he said.
The Guardian 