Central SA
Judge Legodi leads provincial engagement on Hawks complaints process in Bloemfontein─── REFILWE BEKANE 10:00 Fri, 13 Mar 2026
Retired Judge Frans Legodi has taken his national awareness campaign to the Free State, aiming toward transparency and accountability within South Africa’s crime-fighting units.
This provincial roadshow, which reached Bloemfontein on Wednesday (11/03), has the purpose of educating the public and law enforcement about the specialised office of the judge for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks. Legodi met with various stakeholders to clarify the strategies for handling grievances against the unit.
The office states it investigates cases where the public feels their rights were violated during police investigations.
Frequent complaints often centre on a lack of feedback regarding active cases or systemic delays in finalising investigations and court proceedings.
“They should not be scared to come to us if they have complaints,” said Legodi.
The initiative extends beyond public oversight to offer a safeguard for the police officers themselves.
He emphasised that under the law, DPCI members have the right to lodge formal complaints if they experience political pressure or undue interference from their superiors.
Acting national head Lt. Gen. Patrick Mbotho (left), retired Judge Frans Legodi, and Free State Hawks head Gen. Mokgadi Bokaba. Photo: Refilwe Bekane
By addressing staff directly, alongside Free State Hawks head Gen. Mokgadi Bokaba and acting national head Lt. Gen. Patrick Mbotho, the highlights were on the necessity of executing duties without fear, favour, or prejudice.
Bridging the gap between the Hawks and the NPA
Addressing the logistical difficulties of the legal system, the campaign also shed light on the friction between investigators and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
When cases are delayed for legal review, the public often directs its frustration toward the investigators.
Various stakeholders at the event. Photo: Refilwe Bekane
To handle this, Legodi’s office states it possesses the authority to request specific information from the NPA to identify the root causes of these delays.
“It is quite critical, and that is why we are here, but also to encourage them to do their best and execute their functions,” said Legodi.
This provincial outreach aims to foster a culture of communication, ensuring victims receive regular updates and better understand the complexities of the legal process.
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