In a powerful and unequivocal defense, National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) Advocate Shamila Batohi has staunchly backed the head of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (Idac), Advocate Andrea Johnson, against what she termed “very dangerous” allegations.
Testifying before a parliamentary ad hoc committee on Tuesday, Batohi responded directly to claims made by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who had suggested that Idac’s arrest of Crime Intelligence boss Lieutenant General Dumisani Khumalo was an attempt to protect drug cartels.
A Firm Rebuttal of “Dangerous” Claims
Batohi did not mince words in dismissing the allegation that a key anti-corruption unit would act to shield criminals. “That is a very dangerous allegation to make, that a law enforcement agency mandated to deal with corruption and other related offences would effect an arrest to protect drug cartels,” Batohi told the committee.
She then offered a personal and professional guarantee of Johnson’s integrity. “I have no doubt the Idac would never, advocate Johnson would never be motivated [to do that]. She’s a woman of integrity, and I have no doubt she would never effect an arrest like this to protect drug cartels.”
In a striking show of confidence, Batohi added, “I can lay my head on the block that Johnson will never allow or be in any way inclined to act in that manner.”
No “Rogue Unit” at Idac
The NDPP also addressed broader speculation about rogue elements operating within Idac, firmly shutting down the notion.
“There’s no rogue unit in Idac,” she stated. Challenging the committee and accusers, she continued, “If there’s any evidence to that effect, I would like to have the evidence. I urge we don’t make bold allegations without any evidence to support it.”
Batohi revealed that Mkhwanazi’s public allegations in July had taken her aback. To address them formally, she plans to consult with national police commissioner General Fannie Masemola, stating she would “address a letter to the national commissioner seeking details so we can understand what’s going on and take necessary action.”
The testimony marks a significant moment of solidarity at the top of the country’s prosecutorial authority, as Batohi moves to publicly insulate her key anti-corruption lieutenant from politically charged accusations.
