Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has cautioned South African Police Service members to adhere to proper protocols for media communications and reporting misconduct. This follows a briefing by suspended Mpumalanga Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Daphney Manamela, who accused National Commissioner Fannie Masemola of protecting corrupt officers. Police Ministry spokesperson Kamogelo Mogotsi emphasised efforts to restore public trust.
Police Ministry spokesperson Kamogelo Mogotsi stated that Acting Minister Firoz Cachalia's Monday statement aims to remind SAPS members to use established channels for reporting corruption and misconduct, rather than public utterances.
The caution comes after Lieutenant-General Daphney Manamela, the suspended Mpumalanga Police Commissioner, held a media briefing on Sunday. Manamela alleged that National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola had failed to respond to her requests for intervention on challenges, including actions against officers involved in extortion and corruption. She claimed her suspension resulted from these efforts and accused Masemola of shielding corrupt members.
Mogotsi clarified that the minister's role involves executive authority over the police portfolio, while the national commissioner manages the service. "The Minister’s statement is more to caution the members of the SAPS against making public utterances, as opposed to following the relevant channels that are there," Mogotsi said. He noted that protocols apply to members of all ranks, with institutions available for such reports.
Mogotsi added that the statement seeks to restore public trust and boost officer morale.
