[May 27, 2012] S. African intelligence Chief suspended Tweet JOHANNESBURG, May 27, 2012 (Xinhua via COMTEX) -- South Africa's former Crime Intelligence Chief Lieutenant General Richard Mdluli has been suspended, the government announced on Sunday. "A letter of suspension was served to his lawyers. The suspension is effective from 26 May," South African Police Services (SAPS) spokesperson Brigadier Lindela Mashigo said. The acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi had taken over the job of Mdluli in response to the serious allegations that had emerged from an inquest, Mashigo told the official BuaNews agency. Mdluli is facing charges in relation to alleged mismanagement of Crime Intelligence funds and nepotism. The government said earlier that Mdluli, who was moved from his post on May 9, would be shifted to a new position. Mdluli had been charged with murder, mismanagement of funds, abuse of power and nepotism. But the charges were provisionally withdrawn earlier this year. He was then reinstated as the spy chief for South African police. The criminal charges against Mdluli related to his ex- girlfriend's boyfriend Oupa Ramogibe's 1999 murder. Due to claims that Mdluli was spared a trial due to political meddling, the South African police has launched a probe. "Whilst this probe is underway... Lieutenant General Mdluli should be shifted from his current position with effect today, as the head of crime intelligence, and moved to another division," Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa told parliament earlier. But the move drew strong reaction from political parties in the country. The decision to "shift" Mdluli to another position did not resolve problems within the South African Police Service, said AfriForum, a civic organization. "Moving Mdluli is not the answer. The problem must be dealt with head-on and not moved around," spokesman Nantes Kelder said. Political parties have called for the dismissal of Mdluli. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]