Acting Police Minister Professor Firoz Cachalia has recommended KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi for appointment as the next national head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks.
The recommendation was made in terms of Section 17CA(1)–(3) of the South African Police Service (SAPS) Act 68 of 1995, which provides for the appointment of the DPCI head.
According to ministry spokesperson Kamogelo Mogotsi, Cachalia has submitted a memorandum to Cabinet seeking its concurrence with Mkhwanazi’s proposed appointment.
“The Acting Minister has submitted a Cabinet Memorandum seeking Cabinet’s concurrence for the appointment of Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi as the National Head of the DPCI. The memorandum will be presented at the earliest opportunity during a Cabinet sitting,” Mogotsi said.
Mogotsi emphasised the importance of appointing a permanent head to lead the specialised crime-fighting unit, which is responsible for investigating serious priority crimes.
“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,” she added.
Mkhwanazi’s nomination follows the retirement of former Hawks head General Godfrey Lebeya in May last year.
Since Lebeya’s departure, the position has been filled in an acting capacity by his deputy, Lieutenant-General Siphesihle Nkosi.
Cabinet’s consideration of the memorandum is the next step in the process of appointing a new national head of the Hawks.
