The Ministry of Police has addressed media reports regarding the declassification of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) report into the Phala Phala matter, whilst ActionSA has issued legal papers demanding immediate access to the document.
The ministry confirmed in a statement on Tuesday that the report was already declassified on 2 February, responding to questions about Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia’s written parliamentary response on the matter.
The ministry explained that parliamentary questions are referred to relevant departments for replies, with each entity preparing responses within its mandate. The minister submits these responses to Parliament on their behalf.
“With respect to IPID, it must be emphasised that it is an independent body established in terms of the IPID Act. The Minister does not direct or interfere with IPID investigations or findings,” the ministry said.
The ministry clarified that the minister’s role is strictly defined and limited by legislation to safeguard the directorate’s independence.
IPID’s investigation focused on the conduct of South African Police Service members, rather than the primary criminal matter of breaking and theft, according to the statement.
As custodian of the report, IPID determined its classification status, consistent with the National Strategic Intelligence Act. The ministry stated that IPID reports are not intended for public release and may only be accessed through appropriate legal channels, subject to applicable restrictions.
ActionSA confirmed it has issued papers to IPID to obtain the report immediately, following the declassification announcement.
The party has been attempting to access the report through a Promotion of Access to Information Act application, which experienced delays including requests for extensions, email system failures and an initial rejection.
ActionSA stated that the acting minister revealed the declassification in response to a parliamentary question, noting that this information was not communicated to the public. The party said the acting minister indicated the report would not be released as per IPID procedure, and that any legally obtained version would likely be heavily redacted.
The party said it would challenge redactions and the report itself in court if necessary, and would consider further legal means if IPID does not provide what it termed “full transparency”.
The Phala Phala matter centres on a 2020 robbery at President Cyril Ramaphosa’s farm, where $580 000 was allegedly stored in furniture. The investigation examined the conduct of members of the Presidential Protection Unit in handling the robbery investigation.
ActionSA stated it was already preparing legal papers to declassify the IPID report before the announcement was made.
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