Former IPID head Robert McBride has defended the integrity of investigations conducted by his Directorate, denying accusations of political interference and manipulation.
Testifying before the Ad Hoc Committee, McBride responded to a series of probing questions from ANC MP Xola Nqola, who raised concerns about his relationship with forensic consultant Paul O’Sullivan and the formation of task teams within IPID.
McBride firmly denied that O’Sullivan controlled any investigations, stating, “He’s one of the sources of information. There are others also.”
He explained that O’Sullivan provided some useful information, but emphasized that the decision-making in investigations was entirely within IPID’s authority.
When asked about the alleged involvement of O’Sullivan in identifying Lt General Khomotso Phahlane’s house as a crime scene, McBride clarified that O’Sullivan merely showed investigators the location.
“The house was built without registered money,” McBride said.
He added that there was evidence suggesting the money used for the property came in “black plastic bags,” which raised suspicions of corruption.
However, McBride insisted that the house itself was the “proceeds of crime,” not the crime scene.
Regarding the establishment of task teams, McBride defended the creation of the “Phahlane Task Team” to investigate allegations of corruption.
He said, “It was the first time we had such a major systemic corruption matter to deal with,” highlighting the gravity of the case, which involved missing narcotics and rhino horn.
“Given the same circumstances, under the same conditions, with the same allegations, I’ll do it again,” he added, emphasising his commitment to addressing serious complaints.
McBride also addressed accusations of his own involvement in the rendition case, which led to his suspension.
He maintained, “I had nothing to do with the rendition business,” and argued that his suspension was “unlawful,” stating, “The whole world knows that.”
The former IPID head further criticised what he described as political interference by former Police Minister Nathi Nhleko, who allegedly established a reference group to monitor IPID’s investigations.
“You cannot get outsiders, including civilians, to come and question us about our investigations,” McBride said, reiterating his belief in IPID’s operational independence.
McBride referred to Leon Mbangwa, an alleged appointee of Nhleko, as an “illegal alien,” accusing him of holding an influential position within IPID despite not being a South African citizen.
This remark prompted a reprimand from the committee, urging McBride to refrain from using such language.
Politics
