By: Bright Ntuli
Political parties have welcomed the arrest of South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Intelligence head Dumisani Khumalo, who faces charges relating to alleged unlawful senior appointments within the division.
Khumalo’s arrest forms part of a broader investigation into alleged corruption and misconduct within SAPS Crime Intelligence. He is expected to appear in court today.
The case is linked to the earlier arrest of several other senior officers in the division, including Chief Financial Officer Philani Lushaba. These arrests relate to an alleged cover-up of a burglary and the irregular purchase of two luxury properties, reportedly worth millions of rand.
Democratic Alliance spokesperson on state security, Dianne Kohler Barnard, said the developments highlight yet another serious breach of trust within one of the country’s most critical law enforcement agencies.
“These arrests point to deep-rooted corruption in a division tasked with protecting national security. It’s yet another sign of the urgent need for institutional reform and accountability in SAPS,” said Kohler Barnard.
The GOOD Party also welcomed the move. Its Secretary-General, Brett Herron, said senior law enforcement officials must be held to the highest standards of accountability.
“Corruption and criminality cannot be allowed to fester within the ranks of those entrusted with upholding the law. We welcome the arrest and urge authorities to ensure a thorough and transparent prosecution,” Herron said.
SAPS Crime Intelligence has faced mounting criticism in recent years over allegations of political interference, internal power struggles, and irregular procurement practices.
As Khumalo appears in court today, the arrests mark a key moment in efforts to clean up high-level corruption within the police service.
