Suspended Mpumalanga police commissioner Daphney Semakaleng has made a series of serious allegations during a media briefing, claiming interference and misconduct within the South African Police Service.
Semakaleng says she was suspended after raising concerns about internal operations and alleges that political and senior policing structures have influenced certain investigations.
Allegations of Interference
She specifically accused former police minister Bheki Cele of interfering in policing matters, particularly in cases she claims had political links.
Semakaleng also alleged that some senior officials within the Mpumalanga police were protecting criminals, raising concerns about internal accountability.
Claims Against National Leadership
The suspended commissioner further stated that she made multiple attempts to meet with National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola, but said these efforts were unsuccessful.
According to her, even when a meeting eventually took place, she believed it was conducted under surveillance, alleging that recording devices were present.
She further accused Masemola of interference in certain cases, though no evidence was presented publicly to support the claims.
Reference to High-Profile Case
Semakaleng also raised concerns about alleged misconduct linked to the murder case of Hillary Gardee, claiming that a senior provincial official was unhappy when a suspect indicated an intention to plead guilty.
