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Cachalia wants Mkhwanazi to lead the Hawks

Published

Ongoing: Mchunu case Ended

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia says he picked KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi because he wants someone to fight crime cartels. Cabinet and Parliament must still confirm the appointment to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation.

Cachalia said the job had to be advertised twice because there was no suitable candidate. He said he wanted someone dynamic and strategic, who the public appreciates.

The minister said he wanted a person able to take the fight to the cartels. He said he believes his decision was the right one.

Key facts

Who
Firoz Cachalia (Acting Police Minister); Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi (KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, poised to become head of the DPCI); Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks, to be headed by Mkhwanazi if confirmed)
What
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said he wants Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, currently KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, to head the Hawks because he wanted someone to fight crime cartels. The appointment still needs confirmation by Cabinet and Parliament.
When
31 October 2026
Where
South Africa, KwaZulu-Natal
Status
Reported

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