Pretoria - Twenty police officers linked to the disbanded Durban's Cato Manor Organised Crime Unit have been arrested following a joint investigation by the Hawks and the Independent Police Investigations Directorate (IPID).
According to the SAPS, the arrests were carried out on Wednesday and the officers are expected to appear in court on Thursday.
"In December 2011, the Sunday Times published several articles alleging that personnel attached to Cato Manor were involved in 'hit squad' activities. In response, Hawks head Anwa Dramat put together a team to investigate these allegations," SAPS explained.
The team, led by North West Province Hawks head Major General Jan Mabula, began an internal inquiry in January this year.
In addition, IPID Executive Director Francois Beukman set up a task team of investigators to review all cases involving members of the Cato Manor Organised Crime Unit and to finalise investigations.
In March, acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi requested the Hawks to lead a criminal investigation.
It was as a result of these joint investigations that the 20 officers were arrested.
"Assisted by Crime Intelligence and Task Force, a team of over 60 detectives conducted arrests as well as search and seizures at addresses in Durban, and another home at the West Rand. Two of the suspects were arrested in Hammanskraal," SAPS said.
The Hawks and IPID went ahead with Wednesday's operation after securing warrants from the National Prosecuting Authority.
"The arrested suspects face, among others, charges of assault, theft, murder and unlawful possession of guns and ammunition... This is the first phase of the investigation. We expect that more arrests will follow in the next phases," SAPS added.
