Pretoria: The Ministry of Police has addressed widespread media reports concerning the declassification of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) report related to the Phala Phala matter. The Ministry clarified the situation following various online articles discussing the issue.

According to South African Government News Agency, the information originated from a written response provided by Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia during a Parliamentary session. Members of South Africa’s Parliament pose questions that are then referred to the relevant departments for reply, including on matters related to policing and oversight.

The Ministry outlined that the Minister of Police is responsible for overseeing the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the entities under the Ministry, such as IPID. Each entity, including IPID, prepares its own responses, which the Minister submits to Parliament. The Ministry emphasized that IPID operates independently and that its investigations and findings are not directed or influenced by the Minister.

The statement also highlighted that IPID’s investigation focused on the conduct of SAPS members, rather than the primary criminal matter of breaking and theft. The IPID report was compiled after the investigation concluded, and the decision to classify or declassify the report is determined by IPID in line with the National Strategic Intelligence Act.

The report was declassified on February 2, 2026. The Parliamentary response clarified that IPID reports are not meant for public release and can only be accessed through appropriate legal channels while adhering to applicable restrictions.