By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has withdrawn its probe on Kwazulu-Natal (KZN) Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi over the allegations of abusing power.
The investigation follows an anonymous complaint from member of the public.
Its alleged that Mkhwanazi’s interfered with the arrest of a senior Correctional Services official Nelly Ndlovu in Richards Bay in 2023.
Mkhwanazi has vehemently rejected the allegations and maintained there was a plot to oust him for his no-nonsense approach to crime and corruption.
IPID spokesperson Robbie Raburabu confirmed the withdrawal but declined to comment on the details, citing confidentiality protocols.
“The investigation has been closed as there was insufficient evidence to proceed,” he said.
Mkhwanazi has not issued a formal statement, but Fullview learnt that he is more determined than ever to stay the course.
He is known for his tough stance on crime and uncompromising leadership style, has long been a respected yet polarising figure in law-enforcement circles.
Meanwhile the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) welcomed IPID’s decision, maintaining that the allegations were designed to derail a committed officer who has been unrelenting in his fight against crime and corruption.
The party pointed to what it called a coordinated campaign to undermine Mkhwanazi, citing his firm stance against political interference and his crackdown on criminal networks in KwaZulu-Natal.
EFF national spokesperson Sinawo Tambo said, “The complaint formed part of a broader witch hunt, orchestrated by forces within the Ministry of Police and other compromised elements in law enforcement, who feel threatened by Mkhwanazi’s refusal to bow to political pressure.”
The party described the complaint as a tactic to shield criminals by targeting those who expose them.
“The attempt to smear his name, based on an anonymous allegation that has now been quietly abandoned, reflects a dangerous abuse of state institutions,” Tambo said.