The process to appoint a permanent director for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, also known as the Hawks, has been initiated by acting police minister Firoz Cachalia. This move comes after the retirement of General Godfrey Lebeya in May last year, with his deputy holding the position in an acting capacity since then. As per legislation, the acting minister must first seek Cabinet approval for his nominee.
KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is being considered for appointment as the new head of the Hawks. Mkhwanazi has been in the spotlight for over a year since blowing the whistle on alleged criminal interference in the South African Police Service, giving rise to probes by Parliament and the Madlanga Commission. His nomination will be presented to the Cabinet for approval.
The acting minister has submitted a Cabinet memorandum seeking Cabinet's concurrence for the appointment of Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi as the national head of the DPCI. The memorandum will be presented at the earliest opportunity during a Cabinet sitting, according to Police ministry spokesperson Kamogelo Mogotsi. This development is seen as a significant step towards strengthening the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation.
Mkhwanazi's potential appointment as the head of the Hawks is seen as a strategic move to enhance the unit's effectiveness in investigating priority crimes. The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation plays a crucial role in combating serious and organized crime in South Africa. Mkhwanazi's experience and track record in the police service make him a strong candidate for the position.
The Hawks have been without a permanent director since General Godfrey Lebeya's retirement in May last year. The unit has been led by an acting director since then, which may have impacted its operations and effectiveness. The appointment of a permanent director is expected to bring stability and direction to the unit.
Mkhwanazi's nomination has been welcomed by many who see him as a capable and experienced leader. His commitment to rooting out corruption and criminality within the police service has earned him recognition and respect. If appointed, he will be expected to lead the Hawks in their mission to investigate and prosecute priority crimes.
The appointment of a permanent director for the Hawks is a critical step towards enhancing the capacity of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation to tackle serious and organized crime. The process is underway, and Mkhwanazi's nomination will be considered by the Cabinet. The outcome will be closely watched by many who are interested in seeing the Hawks operate effectively.
Key points
- - The acting police minister Firoz Cachalia has initiated the process to appoint a permanent director for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation. - KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is being considered for appointment as the new head of the Hawks. - The appointment of a permanent director is expected to bring stability and direction to the unit.
