Controversial Head of Crime Intelligence in the Western Cape, Mzwandile Tiyo, has been dismissed from the police force.

DISMISSAL

Tiyo's dismissal has been welcomed by the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron.

"The dismissal of Tiyo is tangible proof that misconduct of any form will not be accepted within the service. This is the first step in regaining credibility in the eyes of the community and will assure the people that SAPS will conduct their work ethically and within the code of conduct," Cameron said.

Tiyo's dismissal follows a Section 34 inquiry to establish his fitness to hold office following allegations that he lost both a laptop and a firearm.

He was also accused of using crime intelligence resources to trace and find the people who had stolen them and assaulted them. 

"It is unacceptable that a law enforcement officer unilaterally abused state resources to hide their misdeeds. The fact that the state assets were stolen at a tavern point to sheer disregard for the office he holds," said Cameron.

RULE OF LAW

Tiyo is also famous for his alleged implication in the murder of gang leader Charl Kinnear. Kinnear was under official investigation for corruption in Tiyo's crime intelligence unit when he made allegations against him in publicly and shortly afterwards he was assassinated by gang members with police connections. Cameron further called for the completion of the criminal investigation and prosecution to ensure that justice is served and that the rule of law reigns.

 "This is a good start, and we hope many similar actions will be taken against other officers that operate outside of the code of conduct and the law," he said.