Zimpapers Logo

Jackie Selebi

JOHANNESBURG — A former national police commissioner in South Africa who was convicted of corruption in 2010 has died following a long illness. Jackie Selebi, who served as president of Interpol before his conviction, died yesterday at a hospital in Pretoria, a family spokesman said. Selebi, who was aged 64, suffered from diabetes and kidney failure, according to media reports.

In 2010, a South African court found Selebi guilty of accepting bribes from a drug smuggler. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison, but was released on medical parole after eight months. Opposition leaders and civil society groups criticised his early release.

Selebi served as president of Interpol from 2004-08. He was also a prominent member of African National Congress, South Africa’s ruling party.

Meanwhile, the Young Communist League of SA has hailed Selebi as a “gallant fighter and son of the soil”, following the passing of the disgraced former police chief yesterday.

“Like other leaders of the ANCYL, like Nelson Mandela, Anton Lembede and Mxolisi Majombozi, he will forever be remembered as a member of a generation of young people who took it upon themselves to fight the apartheid regime and build a better life for all our people in South Africa,” the YCLSA said in a statement.

“He will forever be remembered for his selfless and unassuming character.”

Minister of Justice and Correctional Service Michael Masutha meanwhile confirmed that Selebi died at the Steve Biko Academic Hospital in Pretoria.

“The importance of human life can never be overemphasised and we hope his family will gain strength to stand this test of time,” Masutha said in a statement.

Selebi, who would have turned 65 on March 7, was released on medical parole on July 20, 2012, after being sentenced to 15 years in jail for taking bribes from convicted drug dealer Glenn Agliotti.

“My condolences to Anne Selebi and the family on the passing of Jackie,” Agliotti tweeted.

In response to a Twitter follower, Agliotti said it was a sad day.

The Inkatha Freedom Party acknowledged Selebi’s contribution to the struggle against apartheid and as commissioner.

“We wish to thank him for the contribution he made to the development of our country,” IFP secretary general Sibongile Nkomo said in a statement.

“We offer our deepest condolences to the ANC and the Selebi family.”

The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (Popcru) said its members, who worked under Selebi for nine years, were deeply touched by his death.

“Despite the issues that led to his unceremonious departure from office as the country’s police commissioner, some of his deeds as head of the Saps [SA Police Service] led to the effective execution of excellent policing nationally,” spokeswoman Theto Mahlakoana said in a statement.

“(Popcru) extends heartfelt condolences to the Selebi family and those who worked with him as well as his friends.” — Sapa.