By: Saneliso Mlambo
The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) has suspended three investigators over allegations that they manipulated cases, adding to the challenges facing South Africa’s anti-corruption unit.
The suspended investigators are Brian Padayachee, Dylan Perumal and Suneel Bellochun. Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi confirmed the suspensions during a media briefing on Thursday, saying the action followed serious allegations that emerged before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
The suspensions come days after former IDAC head Andrea Johnson vacated her position after President Cyril Ramaphosa accepted her request to leave office. Johnson’s departure followed her testimony before the Madlanga Commission, where concerns were raised about the leadership and operations of the anti-corruption unit.
IDAC, which operates within the National Prosecuting Authority, is mandated to investigate serious corruption and complex commercial crimes.
The latest suspensions are expected to intensify scrutiny of the unit as authorities work to restore public confidence in its investigations.