NPA tells court Mbeki knew about Selebi probe

Selebi is facing two charges of corruption and one of obstructing the ends of justice

Acting National Director of Public Prosecutions, Mokotedi Mpshe, says President Thabo Mbeki and various ministers have been fully informed of investigations and the nature of allegations against National Police Commissioner, Jackie Selebi.

Mpshe was answering to court papers earlier filed by Selebi.

Mpshe says Selebi's allegations that Mbeki and Cabinet have been kept in the dark about the investigation and decision to prosecute him are "simply incorrect". Mpshe says he is aware that there was constant communication between the former Director of Public Prosecutions, Vusi Pikoli, Justice Minister Brigitte Mabandla, and Mbeki.

Mbeki acknowledged on Sunday in an interview with the SABC that he had been made aware of the investigation against Selebi.

"... what I had said in the past was that if anybody brought me evidence to show that the National Commissioner of Police had engaged in criminal wrongdoing, of course we would
act... the National Prosecuting Authority came to me to say that they had received allegations about criminal conduct on the part of the National Commissioner... and I said fine..." said Mbeki.

Mpshe has reiterated that the investigation against Selebi has been conducted in good faith and the decision to prosecute was based on evidence believed to be credible.

Selebi was formally indicted on charges of corruption and defeating the ends of justice at the beginning of the month. The application, in which he will try to stop his prosecution, will be heard on April 10 before a full bench of judges.