ANC seeks answers over Simmers’ appointment as acting Western Cape premier

The Western Cape has appointed a new Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) at a critical time, as more than 1,000 people were murdered in the province over a three-month period. Veteran prosecutor Advocate Adrian Mopp has assumed the role, tasked with leading the prosecution service responsible for handling the province's most serious criminal cases in court. President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed Mopp's appointment on Tuesday, with his appointment commencing on September 10.

Mopp's appointment arrives shortly after the release of the latest provincial crime statistics, which revealed the severity of violence confronting the criminal justice system. Between April and June, there were 1,071 murders in the Western Cape, a 6.7% decrease from the previous quarter. However, Cape Town accounted for 869 of the killings, and Mfuleni remained the country's worst murder hotspot, with 73 murders recorded in just three months.

Rape and kidnapping also saw an increase during this quarter. Mopp's extensive prosecution history reflects his expertise in tackling organized and violent crime. He has worked on complex cases involving organized crime, serious violent crime, drug trafficking, and public transport violence. Mopp served as Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions in the Western Cape since 2009, but his experience in combating organized crime extends further back.

He headed the Western Cape arm of the Directorate of Special Operations, known as the Scorpions, from 2004 to 2009 and also worked in the Asset Forfeiture Unit.

Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi welcomed Mopp's appointment, stating that his experience would bolster the leadership of the National Prosecuting Authority. Ramaphosa expressed confidence in Mopp's ability to contribute to "independent, effective, and efficient prosecution services."