SAPS Crime Intelligence Faces Scrutiny Over R22.7 Million Luxury Hotel Purchase

The South African Police Service’s (SAPS) Crime Intelligence division is under fire after it was revealed that the unit purchased a five-star luxury hotel in Pretoria North for R22.7 million. The decision has sparked outrage, with calls for investigations into potential misuse of funds.

The luxury property, reportedly bought in October last year, boasts 24 bedrooms, an infinity pool, a gym, a restaurant, three bars, and steam and dining rooms. The purchase was allegedly authorized by Crime Intelligence head, Major-General Dumisani Khumalo, and Chief Financial Officer, Major-General Philani Lushaba.

Democratic Alliance (DA) spokesperson on State Security, Dianne Kohler Barnard, expressed concern over the acquisition. The DA has written to the Inspector-General for Intelligence, requesting an inquiry into the transaction.

Kohler Barnard questioned why Crime Intelligence did not seek vacant public property through the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI). “Had they done so, the cost would no doubt have been substantially less, if not zero,” she said. DPWI Minister Dean Macpherson confirmed that his department had no knowledge of the purchase.

ActionSA has joined the chorus of criticism, with MP Dereleen James calling for the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) to probe the matter. James described the purchase as a blatant misuse of funds earmarked for covert operations.

“This revelation comes at a time when Crime Intelligence is grappling with resource constraints. Officers are under-resourced and unable to perform their duties effectively, while SAPS’s crime detection and prevention efforts are severely hampered by gross mismanagement and blatant abuse of power and resources,” said James.

The purchase, meant to be covert, was widely publicized, raising questions about the Crime Intelligence division’s operational secrecy. Critics argue that the funds could have been better spent addressing the division’s pressing needs, such as equipping officers and improving crime prevention strategies.

Both the DA and ActionSA have urged swift action to ensure accountability. The controversy underscores the growing concern over resource allocation within SAPS and highlights the need for stronger oversight and transparency.

The South African Police Service’s (SAPS) Crime Intelligence division is under fire after it was revealed that the unit purchased a five-star luxury hotel in Pretoria North for R22.7 million. The decision has sparked outrage, with calls for investigations into potential misuse of funds.

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