Call for review: Porn-cop appointment as head of North West HAWKS

NORTH WEST – Parliament’s police committee has called for a probe into the appointment of Major General Patrick Mbotho as head of the Hawks in North West. Prior to his appointment, Mbotho allegedly sent explicit messages to a police WhatsApp group and has also been mired in allegations of corruption.

Mbotho is due to take up his position as head of the Hawks in North West in October. In 2017, he was the Western Cape deputy provincial commissioner of detectives when he allegedly posted pornographic content on a police WhatsApp group.

Mbotho was redeployed as the head of Hawks in the North West. Police committee chairperson Ian Cameron says Mbotho’s appointment is very concerning.

“I’m extremely concerned about this because his reputation in the past is tainted not only by misconduct but by serious allegations of criminality. This is a crucial position, and we cannot continue as though it is normal to make such an appointment. We request that the appointment be reviewed. We also request that an enquiry be launched into his fitness to hold office not only in the DPCI but also in the police service.The committee further requests that the promotion and taking office be held back until the completion of this review” said Cameron.