Thokozile Mnguni
Suspended Crime Intelligence Head Major General Feroz Khan has been hospitalised following an alleged attempted assassination last night.
The shooting took place on 3rd Avenue in Houghton, Johannesburg. Khan was shot twice in the abdomen during the incident.
He was due to testify before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry this Wednesday.
The Commission has wished him a speedy recovery and said it will engage with his legal representatives regarding his scheduled appearance.
Khan, alongside two other individuals, was arrested on 10 May over allegations linked to illegal gold dealing and briefly appeared in the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on May 11. They are expected back in court on the July 14.
At the time, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron, welcomed what he described as decisive action by SAPS leadership in holding officers accountable. He also made comments regarding Khan’s position within the service.
“The intrepidity and swiftness shown by the SAPS leadership in holding officers accountable, irrespective of rank, is commendable. For this reason, logic dictates that Major General Khan should also be suspended. Any officer alleged to have broken the law must be suspended to protect the integrity of ongoing investigations,” said Cameron.
Acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, has directed that the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) be incorporated into the investigation into the alleged attempted assassination.
Police said they are aware of public speculation regarding the timing of the attack, but warned it is premature and irresponsible to conclude motive or any possible link to his pending commission appearance. Detectives will follow evidence wherever it leads.
The South African Police Service said any attempt to intimidate or attack individuals involved in judicial processes is treated in the most serious light. It added that interference in the administration of justice will be met with the full force of the law.
Dimpane condemned the attack and confirmed that all necessary resources will be deployed to track down those responsible.
“The SAPS remains resolute in protecting the rule of law and ensuring that justice prevails. We wish Major General Khan a speedy recovery and our thoughts are also with his family during this period,” Dimpane said.