It’s D-day for Paul O’Sullivan as Parliament hears evidence under heavy security

It’s D-day for Paul O’Sullivan as Parliament hears evidence under heavy security

After days of speculation and public tension, Tuesday marks a decisive moment in one of Parliament’s most closely watched inquiries. Forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan is expected to finally take the stand before Parliament’s ad hoc committee probing allegations of interference, corruption and misconduct within the South African Police Service (SAPS), this time under tightened security.

The hearing comes with a sense of urgency. O’Sullivan cut short a planned stay in London to return to South Africa after learning that the committee is aiming to wrap up its work next week. For him, the timing mattered.

“It was important to put evidence before Members of Parliament,” O’Sullivan told IOL, saying he did not want what he believes are false narratives to stand unchallenged.

Why this testimony matters

Parliament set up the ad hoc committee to dig into claims that strike at the core of SAPS credibility, from alleged political interference to systemic failures within senior leadership. For many South Africans, weary of crime and distrustful of institutions meant to protect them, the inquiry has become more than a procedural exercise. It’s about whether accountability is still possible.

O’Sullivan’s evidence is expected to touch on his interactions with SAPS leadership, alleged meddling in investigations, and his own experiences navigating the criminal justice system.

Safety concerns and a missed appearance

O’Sullivan was originally scheduled to appear last week but stayed away, citing serious concerns about his personal safety. That decision triggered murmurs in political circles and online, with some critics suggesting he was avoiding scrutiny.

He has firmly rejected that idea.

“I’m not in the business of fleeing,” he said, pushing back against suggestions that his absence was anything other than a safety call.

Committee members later acknowledged that certain witnesses face real risks and confirmed that additional measures would be put in place to allow testimony to proceed without intimidation or disruption.

Tight security, few details

According to parliamentary sources quoted by The Star, security around O’Sullivan’s appearance has been significantly reinforced. While exact arrangements remain under wraps, they reportedly include controlled access to the venue and heightened protection.

O’Sullivan himself has confirmed that security has been “beefed up”, though he has declined to discuss specifics.

Pushing back against allegations

Another layer of tension surrounds accusations made by some witnesses who have already appeared before the committee. They alleged that O’Sullivan infiltrated the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) or exerted undue influence within law enforcement.

He has dismissed those claims outright, describing them as false and defamatory.

Public interest and what comes next

On social media and talk radio, South Africans have been sharply divided, some viewing O’Sullivan as a whistleblower determined to expose rot in the system, others questioning his role and influence. What’s clear is that the inquiry has captured national attention in a way few parliamentary processes do.

The committee is expected to hear from more witnesses in the coming weeks before compiling a final report to Parliament, one that could carry significant implications for SAPS leadership and broader police reform.

For now, all eyes are on Tuesday’s hearing, a moment that could shape the tone, findings and credibility of the entire investigation.

{Source: IOL}

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