Police to launch new crime unit
2009-07-06 10:18
Johannesburg - Slick saxophonists, healthy fruitsticks and gentle chatter filled the foyer at Gallagher Estate in Midrand on Monday ahead of the launch of the police's new Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (DPCI).
The DPCI would replace the beleaguered Scorpions.
Guests from the police and safety and security department sipped non alcoholic cocktails ahead of the formal launch of the unit, to be headed by Anwa Dramat.
The gathering was in sharp contrast to the hostility the Scorpions were subjected to as their demise was put in place with a resolution taken by African National Congress delegates at Polokwane in Limpopo in 2007.
Delegates of the ruling party at that time resolved to do away with the Scorpions, which fell under the new justice department, and create a new special investigative unit in the safety and security department.
At the time the party felt the unit was employing Hollywood-style tactics in the way it carried out its investigations.
President Jacob Zuma was one of those in the unit's sights while he faced corruption charges.
In spite of public petitions and several court challenges, legislation to enable the new unit was passed by members of parliament.
The launch was expected to be attended by Safety and Security Minister Nathi Mthethwa and his deputy Fikile Mbalula.
- SAPA