IPID reveals shocking claims of police 'hit squads' at Madlanga Commission
Len John, Deputy Director of IPID, reveals alarming details about police hit squads involved in unlawful killings linked to cash-in-transit robberies and drug syndicates, raising serious concerns about police integrity.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) in KwaZulu-Natal has accused the South African Police Service (SAPS) of operating hit squads targeting individuals linked to cash-in-transit robberies, taxi operators, and drug syndicates. Deputy Director for Investigations Len John revealed that these rogue police units have been killing suspects without proper investigation, often without any connection to the alleged crimes.
Between April 2023 and May 2026, IPID investigated over 300 cases, with 77 resulting in the deaths of 149 individuals. Many of those killed had no ties to the cash-in-transit robberies initially reported by the police, and only a small number of recovered firearms compared to the number of victims. John highlighted that police often close cases immediately after killings, failing to conduct further investigations or verify the link between the deceased and alleged offenses.
One notable case involved a taxi boss hiding in Hibberdene, who was allegedly planning a cash-in-transit robbery despite having no known connections to such crimes. Task team members entered his holiday cottage, allegedly posing as police officers, and killed the suspect while searching his home. IPID investigators noted that the police case numbers for the deceased's involvement in the alleged offenses were unavailable, raising concerns about the legitimacy of the police's involvement.
John also revealed that some trucking industry operators were involved in the drug trade, with trucks used for drug transportation and supply across eThekwini Municipality. The IPID's investigation into Lieutenant-Colonel Deena Govender uncovered allegations that she was commissioned to murder Bevan Loftus to eliminate competition in the truck and drug industries.
IPID investigators found minimal evidence linking the deceased to the initial allegations, suggesting that the police task team fabricated their version of events to conceal the unjustified shooting.
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