Head of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), Adv Andrea Johnson, says comments made by General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi have deeply unsettled staff inside the organisation and created fears about their safety.
In an interview with News24, Johnson described the remarks as “devastating” and said employees felt threatened after statements linked to tensions surrounding investigations involving senior Crime Intelligence figures. According to Johnson, staff members began asking difficult questions about what the comments could mean for them personally.
Responding to references about conflict and comments suggesting that “blood will flow”, Johnson asked:
“Whose blood must flow? Ours?”
She questioned why ordinary officials should fear for their safety while carrying out their duties.
Johnson also rejected allegations that there are “rogue elements” inside IDAC and maintained that the unit operates within its legal mandate and follows formal investigative processes. She warned that public statements targeting institutions and investigators can have real consequences for staff and ongoing work.
The exchange forms part of growing tensions around investigations involving Crime Intelligence and broader accountability processes currently under public scrutiny.
