KZN POLICE OFFICER PULLED FROM DUTY OVER ALLEGED POLITICAL INVOLVEMENT

KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, has ordered the immediate withdrawal of a police constable from Ntambanana Police Station amid allegations of political involvement and business interests that contravene police regulations.

The instruction, directed to the District Commissioner of King Cetshwayo, follows reports that the officer was seen wearing the regalia of a political party and actively participating in its activities. This is a direct violation of Section 46 of the South African Police Service (SAPS) Act, which prohibits police officers from associating themselves with political parties, holding office in such organisations, or engaging in conduct that may further party-political interests.

“Police officers are expected to be apolitical and neutral at all times. Any association with a political party has the potential of bringing the name of the organisation into disrepute,” Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi said.

In addition to the political allegations, the Provincial Commissioner has also confirmed that the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) will be approached to investigate claims that the constable owns a security company offering VIP protection and other services. Regulations prohibit police officers from engaging in the security industry, as well as the alcohol and taxi sectors, due to the potential for conflicts of interest and corruption.

The SAPS leadership has appealed to community members to come forward and report any officers who compromise the integrity of the service by engaging in political activities or questionable business dealings.

“This type of behaviour will not be tolerated. We must protect the credibility of the SAPS and ensure that our officers serve the people without bias or divided loyalties,” Mkhwanazi added.

The constable will remain off operational duty while investigations continue.