The South African Police Service (SAPS) has cleared five senior police officers, including suspended KwaZulu-Natal Hawks head Major General Lesetja Senona, following the conclusion of an internal disciplinary hearing into allegations of kidnapping, assault, torture and theft.
The case centred on allegations made by Mozambican national Esmael Nangy, who claimed he had been kidnapped and tortured by police officers.
Following an internal investigation and disciplinary process, SAPS found that the evidence presented during the hearing was insufficient to prove wrongdoing by any of the officers involved.
National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed that all five officers were found not guilty on all charges after the disciplinary proceedings had considered the evidence placed before the panel.
According to SAPS, the disciplinary process was conducted thoroughly before a decision was reached to clear the officers of the allegations.
The outcome marks a significant development for Senona, whose future had been uncertain since the allegations surfaced and prompted both an internal investigation and widespread public attention.
The accusations against the officers included kidnapping, assault, torture and theft, all linked to Nangy’s claims of mistreatment.
SAPS said the disciplinary proceedings have now been finalised, with all five officers cleared of wrongdoing in relation to the allegations.
The outcome of the internal hearing does not necessarily affect any separate criminal investigations or legal processes that may arise from the matter.
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