Johannesburg - Former head of the Hawks Major-General Berning Ntlemeza will soon be considered a retired man, says Police Minister Fikile Mbalula.
The news of Ntlemeza's retirement comes after his bid to appeal a high court judgment nullifying his appoint as head of the Hawks - was dismissed by the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA).
Mbalula said he has instructed SAPS to start processing Ntlemeza's retirement as Major-General and not as Lieutenant General - a title he received after he was appointed to head up the Hawks by former Minister of Police Nathi Nhleko.
The High Court had found that Ntlemeza's appointment was irrational.
Mbalula said he was guided by the South African Police Act which stipulates the retirement age is 60 years. Ntlemeza is 61 years-old.
“With this decision of the SCA, I am directing SAPS to commence processing General Ntlemeza’s retirement with immediate effect as if he had retired at the age of 60 but at a level of Major-General and not as a Lieutenant General he was promoted to upon his now defunct appointment.” Mbalula said.
Mbalula said the current acting head of the Hawks Lieutenant-General Yolisa Matakata would continue to act in the role, while he finds a suitable head for the unit.
STATEMENT
I am directing SAPS to commence processing General Ntlemeza’s retirement with immediate effect. pic.twitter.com/Azr7HggKVC
— RSA Police Minister (@MbalulaFikile) September 19, 2017