Attempted Assassination of Deputy Crime Intelligence Boss
One of South Africa's highest-ranking police officials, Deputy Crime Intelligence Chief Maj-Gen Feroz Khan, survived an assassination attempt in Johannesburg, according to police reports.
Khan was shot on Sunday evening while driving home and was immediately transported to a hospital where he underwent emergency surgery, local media outlets reported.
Context of the Shooting and Inquiry
The shooting incident occurred just days before Khan was scheduled to testify at a public inquiry investigating criminal activities within South Africa's police force.
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, a spokesperson for the South African Police Service, issued a statement on Monday confirming that an investigation is underway.
"It is premature and irresponsible to speculate on any possible motive or to conclude that the incident is linked to his anticipated appearance before the [inquiry]"
The inquiry, known as the Madlanga Commission, was established following allegations made last July by senior police officer Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who claimed that organized crime groups had infiltrated government structures.
Legal Issues Surrounding Maj-Gen Feroz Khan
Last month, Khan and two other individuals were arrested on charges related to the illegal dealing and unlawful possession of precious metals.
This investigation traces back to a 2021 incident in which a businessman was found carrying 75.9 grams (2.7 ounces) of unwrought gold at Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport.
When questioned, the businessman asserted that he was acting as an undercover agent connected to senior police officers.
Subsequent investigations revealed that no authorized undercover operation involving precious metals was active at that time. Prosecutors stated in May that Khan and another officer had instructed personnel to release the businessman.
Khan has not publicly responded to these allegations but was released on bail.
Additional Information and Related Coverage
For further coverage on South African police matters, see related BBC stories including investigations into police corruption, charges against police leadership, and fraud allegations within the police intelligence division.
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