CAPE TOWN - KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi says fighting crime is a collective responsibility that must continue with or without him.
“Whether Mkhwanzi is there or not, it will remain a challenge for all of us and the citizens of this country to contribute one way or another to fight crime in the country,” Mkhwanazi says.
He was speaking exclusively to eNCA ahead of the 27th Interpol African Regional Conference in Cape Town on Wednesday morning.
The event sees police chiefs from across 193 member countries gathering alongside Interpol's top leadership to strengthen cooperation in tackling cross-border crimes.
READ | SAPS turmoil | Madlanga Commission into Mkhwanazi claims delayed
Mkhwanazi blew the whistle on alleged corruption within the South African Police Service. He claimed that criminal syndicates had infiltrated the police and justice system, and that politicians interfered with high-profile investigations.
The revelations prompted President Cyril Ramaphosa to announce a judicial commission of inquiry.
But the process has already suffered setbacks, with the Justice Department failing to procure key infrastructure needed to get the process under way.
Reflecting on how his life has changed since he made the bombshell allegations, Mkhwanazi admitted that his privacy has been compromised.
“Wherever I walk now, people recognise me and greet me, which is not something I particularly enjoy,” he said.
He reiterated his commitment to policing, pointing to continued arrests and firearm recoveries by the police force in KwaZulu-Natal.
“Whether I am in the service or not, I will still play my part. The work must continue,” he told eNCA.
Mkhwanazi stressed that policing cannot hinge on one individual, especially in a country where crime is rife.
He also cautioned against blurring the lines between policy and operations, saying roles must be applied clearly and legislation enforced properly.