A former Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department deputy commissioner urged mandatory financial scrutiny of officers during testimony before the Madlanga Commission that began Friday and resumed Monday. Revo Spies, who served 33 years with EMPD and currently works for Tshwane Metro Police, stated that personnel operate expensive vehicles and reside in upscale properties despite modest salaries while facing minimal accountability for involvement in criminal activities.
Spies noted that existing legislation permits lifestyle examinations of municipal employees but excludes metropolitan police from such oversight. He advocated for compulsory background checks and financial reviews of all law enforcement personnel to identify potential corruption.
The commission is investigating allegations of unlawful units, misconduct and attempted concealment within EMPD. Previous witnesses described incidents including a whistleblower homicide, unauthorized operations and the arrest of three officers for illegal detention and theft. Spies was scheduled to resume testimony on Tuesday morning.
Spies noted that existing legislation permits lifestyle examinations of municipal employees but excludes metropolitan police from such oversight. He advocated for compulsory background checks and financial reviews of all law enforcement personnel to identify potential corruption.
The commission is investigating allegations of unlawful units, misconduct and attempted concealment within EMPD. Previous witnesses described incidents including a whistleblower homicide, unauthorized operations and the arrest of three officers for illegal detention and theft. Spies was scheduled to resume testimony on Tuesday morning.
