Is there sufficient evidence and concern to warrant establishing a Commission of Inquiry to probe serous allegations of links between gangs and members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the province – among them senior officials?

The judgment, delivered on 17 October 2022, stated that there is evidence that gang members have infiltrated the top management structures of the SAPS in the Western Cape, and are accessing key documents and strategies on crime fighting.

Winde says with few arrests or prosecutions of gangsters taking place, it could be the case that this is actively aiding them to avoid the law.

This judgment has highlighted alleged horrific and deep-rooted corruption and collusion between the SAPS and members of the so-called 28’s gang.

 

In his ruling, Judge Daniel Thulare stated: “The evidence suggests not only a capture of some lower ranking officers in the SAPS. The evidence suggests that the senior management of the SAPS in the province has been penetrated to the extent that the 28 gang has access to the table where the Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in the Western Cape sits with his senior managers and lead them in the study of crime, develop crime prevention strategies and decide on tactics and approach to the safety and security of inhabitants of the Western cape. This includes penetration of and access to the sanctity of the reports by specialized units like the Anti-Gang Unit and Crime Intelligence, to the Provincial Commissioner.”

The judgment further states that the gang had protection and assistance from corrupt cops.

Upon receipt of the outcome of the Ombud’s investigation, and based upon its contents, the Premier will then consider further steps in this respect.

“This matter cannot be ignored any longer by Police Minister Bheki Cele and the national government. In the absence of decisive action from them over a considerable amount of time, we as the Western Cape Government are committed to addressing this critical issue.”