Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi Biography – Who is Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi? Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is a prominent figure in South Africa, currently serving as the Regional Legal Counsel at SEACOM South Africa (Pty) Ltd. He holds an LLB Degree and a National Diploma in law, is an admitted attorney of the High Court in South Africa, and has completed a short course in Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management with the University of South Africa (UNISA). Nhlanhla is currently pursuing a Masters in Business Administration, with a focus on SMEs.
Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi Biography
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi |
| Occupation | KZN Police Commissioner, Regional Legal Counsel at SEACOM South Africa |
| Age | 51 years |
| Date of Birth | Not Disclosed |
| Education | LLB Degree, National Diploma in Law, BA Degree in Policing |
| Marital Status | Not Disclosed |
| Career Highlights | Head of Special Task Force, Acting National Police Commissioner, Arrest of suspects in AKA murder case |
| Controversies | Allegations of involvement in the killing of an innocent man, Stopping an investigation into the Crime Intelligence Secret Fund misappropriation |
Prior to his role at SEACOM, Nhlanhla gained extensive experience working with several major organizations, including Vodacom, EOH, and the Airports Company of South Africa. In these positions, he dealt predominantly with ICT and Telecommunications Contracts, holding roles such as Contracts Specialist, Senior Legal Counsel, and ICT Contracts Specialist.
Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s Background
Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi was born in Edendale, a township in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, known for its violence prior to the end of apartheid in 1994. He joined the South African Police Service (SAPS) in 1993, starting his career in Public Order Policing. Over the years, he has climbed through the ranks, serving in various management positions within the police service.
Nhlanhla holds a National Diploma and a BA Degree in Policing. He has also earned certificates for his qualifications in counterterrorism investigations from the USA, bomb disposal from South Africa, and crisis response teams from the USA. In 2005, he was appointed head of the Special Task Force, a role that involves managing all specialized operational sections within SAPS, such as the National Air Wing and the National Intervention Unit.
In October 2011, former President Jacob Zuma appointed Nhlanhla as the acting national police commissioner, succeeding Bheki Cele. Cele was suspended and later dismissed for his involvement in the controversial R1.78 billion police headquarters lease deal. Nhlanhla was appointed as the head of police in KwaZulu-Natal in December 2018.
Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s Career and Achievements
Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has made significant contributions to law enforcement in South Africa. His strict, determined, and highly disciplined approach has been praised by many. In 2023, he was instrumental in the investigation that led to the arrest of seven suspects involved in the murder of award-winning rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and his friend Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane. The two were tragically shot dead on February 10, 2023, on Florida Road in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
No-Nonsense Approach
Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is known for his no-nonsense approach to policing. He has been vocal against police officers engaging in personal activities while on duty. In 2023, he publicly criticized officers who were seen doing grocery shopping in full uniform, urging the public to report such incidents. Additionally, in 2022, he called for the ban of alcohol sales in townships and rural areas following several tavern shootings that resulted in multiple deaths.
During the infamous July unrest in 2021, Nhlanhla stood firm against political interference in police operations, further solidifying his reputation as a dedicated and principled officer.
Controversies
Despite his commendable service, Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has not been free from controversy. In 2012, the Democratic Alliance (DA) called for his immediate dismissal, alleging that he had admitted to being part of a group within SAPS responsible for the killing of an innocent man. The DA also accused him of halting an investigation into the misappropriation of funds from the Crime Intelligence Secret Fund.
FAQs
Q: What is Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s current role?
A: Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is the Regional Legal Counsel at SEACOM South Africa and the KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner.
Q: How old is Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi?
A: Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is 51 years old.
Q: What are some of Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s notable achievements?
A: Nhlanhla is known for his role in the arrest of suspects in the murder of rapper AKA and his no-nonsense approach to policing.
Q: Has Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi been involved in any controversies?
A: Yes, he has faced allegations regarding the killing of an innocent man and stopping an investigation into the Crime Intelligence Secret Fund.
Conclusion
Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is a distinguished figure in South African law enforcement and legal sectors. His career, marked by significant achievements and a few controversies, reflects his dedication to justice and discipline. Whether as a legal counsel or a police commissioner, Nhlanhla continues to serve his country with unwavering commitment
