Conflict between law-enforcement agencies is ”not such a big thing”, Safety and Security Minister Charles Nqakula told the South African Broadcasting Corporation on Wednesday.
”Now and then conflict that arises is as a result … of professional jealousy between such organisations [and] as a consequence of turf war, and it is not such a big thing.”
Tension between the Scorpions and the South African Police Service led to the Khampepe Commission of Inquiry earlier this year into the mandate and location of the Scorpions.
Speculation on the issue resurfaced after the arrest last week of Johannesburg businessman Glen Agliotti in connection with the murder of mining magnate Brett Kebble.
Some news reports suggested the Scorpions and the police had not been working in harmony in the investigation into the killing.
Nqakula said on Wednesday tension between law-enforcement agencies was to be found around the world.
He said recommendations made by the Kampepe commission to President Thabo Mbeki were at ”advanced stages” of being put into effect.
The commission proposed that the Scorpions remain under the justice department, but should report to the safety and security minister on matters relating to investigations. — Sapa