Media Statement: Slow Implementation of Ipid Recommendations Relating to Kinnear Murder a Matter of Grave Concern

Parliament, Thursday, 10 November 2022 -The Portfolio Committee on Police has criticised the slow progress in implementing the recommendations made by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) following an investigation into the murder of Lieutenant Colonel Charl Kinnear. The committee yesterday received a progress report on investigations conducted by IPID, the South African Police Service and the Directorate of Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI).

The committee considers the tardiness in implementing both the recommendations and in instituting further internal SAPS investigations undermines the assurance given to the Kinnear family that justice will be done. It is also worrying that despite clear recommendations from IPID, SAPS decided to appoint a member to investigate allegations of misconduct, which subsequently absolved SAPS members of any wrong-doing.

In addition, there has been little or no action following the Western Cape High Court ruling, which highlighted that rogue elements are operating within the Anti-Gang Unit in the Western Cape. The committee therefore urges SAPS and DPCI leadership to initiate processes to implement IPID's recommendations and desist from second-guessing their reports.

The committee also emphasised that while the Western Cape High Court ruling concerns corrupt SAPS officials, a large contingent of committed, loyal and incorruptible officers remain within the police service. Senior management must, therefore, urgently devise and implement plans to remove rotten elements from within the service.

The committee welcomed IPID's comprehensive report, but highlighted that gaps remain that need attention. One critical question that has still not been answered it who within the SAPS authorised the removal of protection around Lieutenant Colonel Kinnear and the reasons why this was done.

Meanwhile, the committee welcomed the assurance from IPID that it has instituted a process to review the National Prosecuting Authority's (NPA's) decision not to prosecute those implicated in the report. Collaboration between the NPA and IPID will ensure that IPID fills in gaps identified by the NPA in order to ensure prosecution.

While the committee acknowledged after yesterday's meeting that unanswered questions remain, it is committed to finding the answers and its resolution to receive periodic updates will remain in place. The committee will now await the finalisation of the process to review the NPA's decision. "This matter will remain front and centre in the work of the committee in its effort to ensure that justice is served," said committee Chairperson Ms Tina Joemat-Pettersson.

ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON POLICE, MS TINA JOEMAT-PETTERSSON

For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact the Committee's Media Officer:
Name: Malatswa Molepo (Mr)
Parliamentary Communication Services
Tel: 021 403 8438
Cell: 081 512 7920
E-mail: [email protected]

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