SAPS Brigadier Dineo Mokwele is set to receive the Integrity Under Fire Special Award at the 2026 Whistleblowers Awards in Johannesburg on Monday, following an ordeal that saw her face fraud and corruption charges before the National Prosecuting Authority withdrew them unconditionally.
The 31-year-old Crime Intelligence officer is being recognised for her courage, integrity and professional conduct despite the challenges she has faced.
The SAPS has congratulated Mokwele on the recognition, with National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola praising her resilience and commitment to integrity.
The 2026 Whistleblowers Awards, organised by Public Interest SA, take place on 26 October, with the accompanying summit scheduled for 27 October. (Public Interest SA)
IDAC case against Mokwele
Mokwele came under investigation after being appointed to head Crime Intelligence’s Technical Support Services unit in April 2024. The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) alleged that her appointment involved irregularities relating to her qualifications and the recruitment process.
She was arrested in June 2025 alongside Crime Intelligence head Lieutenant-General Dumisani Khumalo and other senior police officials. They faced fraud and corruption charges connected to her appointment.
However, the case came under scrutiny during testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. Questions were raised about the basis for the charges, including whether the alleged benefit linked to Mokwele’s appointment had yet materialised.
The National Prosecuting Authority withdrew the charges against Mokwele and her co-accused unconditionally in August 2026. The allegations were not tested at trial. (The Madlanga Commission Archive)
An engineering background in Crime Intelligence
Mokwele holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA), a Bachelor of Technology in Industrial Engineering and a National Diploma in Mechatronics Engineering.
Her professional development includes leadership training, project management and international training in Intensive Service Design at Laurea University of Applied Sciences in Finland.
Her recognition comes amid broader calls for stronger protection of people who face professional or personal consequences after standing by their principles. The Whistleblowers Awards aim to recognise individuals and organisations that demonstrate courage, ethical conduct and accountability. (Public Interest SA)
