Acting police minister wants Mkhwanazi appointed to new position

KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi testifies at the Madlanga Commission in Pretoria on 18 September 2025. Picture: Gallo Images / Alet Pretorius

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has initiated the process to appoint a national head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks.

In accordance with section 17CA(1)-(3) of the Act, the appointment of the national head of the Hawks is made by the police minister, with the concurrence of Cabinet. The Act also requires reporting the appointment to Parliament.

Cachalia has submitted a Cabinet memorandum seeking Cabinet’s concurrence for the appointment of Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi as the national head of the Hawks. The memorandum will be presented at the earliest opportunity during a Cabinet sitting.

“The DPCI plays a critical role in South Africa’s fight against organised crime, corruption, and other serious priority offences. This is a priority for the Police Reset Agenda. The appointment of a National Head is important in ensuring strong leadership, strategic direction and operational effectiveness in addressing these crimes,” said Cachalia.

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