Former Police Minister Bheki Cele has staunchly defended the value of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT), describing its existence as “good for the country” despite ongoing controversy surrounding its disbandment and allegations of political interference within the police service.
Cele’s remarks come as he faces intense scrutiny over two days of testimony regarding claims made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
Mkhwanazi has accused influential figures, including those allegedly linked to Cele, of compromising police integrity, particularly in relation to the PKTT’s work.
The PKTT was officially disbanded on December 31, 2024, by suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, who is now himself under investigation for serious allegations of protecting criminal syndicates with ties to Cele.
“Who did the assessment? The only source I know that had a problem with the PKTT is Aunt Mary,” Cele told ANC MP Xola Nqola who questioned him about the value of the value of the PKTT.
“But when it comes to the PKTT, I don’t have figures. I recall high-profile cases that were unresolved in the past. The task team pursues cases not solely politically motivated,” he argued.
Cele emphasised that the PKTT’s remit extended beyond political figures.
“They go after hitmen hired to kill taxi operators and others — not only politicians. If the PKTT finds a suspect responsible for multiple murders, political or not, they pursue them, which I believe helps maintain law and order.”
Cele questioned Mchunu’s alleged gaps in the work of the PKTT, recounting some of the high-profile cases in which the unit had displayed effectiveness.
“I haven’t seen any assessment. Those who assess should report to the one who established this unit and say, ‘You can fix it, or don’t fix it. “ You don’t just disband it,” he said.
“But for me, the team did a good job. And I guess that their job is not even done yet.”
Adding to the complex web of oversight, Minister Senzo Mchunu testified that Cele never received formal handover documents relating to the PKTT during their ministerial transition.
“Not as I read it. What was there were references to committees the minister served on, not necessarily the PKTT in any form,” Mchunu told ANC MP Khusela Diko.
Pressed on why Cele did not disband the task team himself, Mchunu replied, “Not really, we didn’t delve into that matter.”
The hearings are part of an inquiry into alleged political interference in the police service, with committee members calling for transparency and accountability.
Politics
