SAPS Divisional Commissioner for Supply Chain Management. Pic SC
Thokozile Mnguni
A senior South African Police Service official has been suspended as scrutiny intensifies over procurement decisions linked to the COVID-19 period.
Lieutenant-General Molefe Fani, who serves as SAPS Divisional Commissioner for Supply Chain Management, was suspended from his duties amid allegations surrounding personal protective equipment (PPE) procurement during his previous role at National Treasury.
The development places renewed attention on accountability within senior police leadership, particularly in matters involving public procurement and the handling of state funds during the pandemic.
Concerns were raised over procurement processes tied to contracts issued during Fani’s time in government financial administration. Questions around compliance, oversight and the management of public resources have remained central to the matter.
The issue had already attracted the attention of Parliament, with members of the Portfolio Committee on Police previously calling for urgent action following findings linked to procurement irregularities.
At the time, committee members argued that allegations involving senior officials should be dealt with swiftly to protect the integrity of the police service and maintain public confidence in law enforcement institutions.
Limited details have been released regarding the suspension, which has been described as an internal employer-employee matter. It remains unclear how long the suspension will remain in place or whether disciplinary proceedings have formally begun.
The case comes at a time when the police service is facing increasing pressure to strengthen internal accountability and act decisively against officials implicated in misconduct.