Hawks Leadership Backs Controversial Mbotho Appointment Amidst Allegations
In a move that has sparked outrage, Major General Patrick Mbotho’s appointment as a Divisional Commissioner in the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) has raised eyebrows. As reported by SABC News, Mbotho is no stranger to controversy. Back in 2017, while leading the Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Unit, he admitted to sharing explicit content on an official Detectives WhatsApp group. Beyond this, Parliament’s Police Portfolio Committee has voiced serious concerns over his alleged ties to a known Cape Town racketeering kingpin, further questioning his suitability for the role.
Despite these allegations, Hawks head Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya continues to stand by Mbotho, arguing that he has served 38 years with distinction and has been instrumental in combating corruption in Gauteng. Lebeya assured Parliament that all due processes were followed in his appointment, and Mbotho had been disciplined for the misconduct. Yet, Ian Cameron, Chair of the Police Portfolio Committee, remains unconvinced, stating, “Someone who distributes pornographic material and has underworld connections cannot be trusted.”
Why are we allowing individuals with questionable pasts to ascend to powerful roles within law enforcement? Should disciplinary actions involving serious misconduct disqualify someone from holding such positions? As allegations of criminal interference continue to surface, how much more are we willing to tolerate?
