Berning Ntlemeza Biography: Wikipedia, Age, Education, Qualifications, Career, Wife, Family

Naijaplaybaze July 2, 2024

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Berning Ntlemeza Biography

Berning Ntlemeza is a former major general in the South African Police Service. His career spanned over three decades, during which he played a pivotal role in crime detection and policing in South Africa. However, his tenure as the head of The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (commonly known as the Hawks) was marked by controversy.

In 2017, the Pretoria High Court nullified his appointment, ruling that he had been unlawfully appointed to lead the crime-fighting agency. Despite this, Ntlemeza resurfaced as a politician and joined Ace Magashule’s newly formed party, the African Congress for Transformation (ACT). Recently, he has also been involved in private investigation and security work.

Berning Ntlemeza Age

Berning Ntlemeza is 61 years old as of 2024.

Berning Ntlemeza Educational Qualifications

Major General Mthandazo Berning Ntlemeza matriculated from Falo High School in Cofimvaba, Eastern Cape, in 1980 with a Matric Exemption.

He joined the South African Police Service in the then Transkei in 1981 and pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Police Science at the University of Transkei, which he completed in 1989.

Additionally, he studied for a B Juris degree at the same university, completing it in 1996. Currently, he is studying for an LLB degree with the University of South Africa.

Berning Ntlemeza Early Career and Rise through the Ranks

Berning Ntlemeza began his policing career in 1981, joining the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Transkei region. Over the next three decades, he held various investigative and management positions within the SAPS.

Leadership of the Hawks

Ntlemeza’s most prominent role was as the head of The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commonly known as the Hawks. Appointed in 2015, he led the specialized unit responsible for tackling serious and organized crime. However, his tenure was marked by controversy, legal challenges, and allegations of misconduct.

Controversies and Legal Battles

During his time as Hawks head, Ntlemeza faced criticism over his leadership style and decisions. In 2017, the Pretoria High Court ruled that his appointment was unlawful, leading to his removal from the position. Despite this setback, he remained a prominent figure in South African law enforcement circles.

Transition to Politics

After leaving the SAPS, Ntlemeza entered the political arena. He aligned himself with Ace Magashule’s newly formed party, the African Congress for Transformation (ACT). His involvement in politics raised questions, as active police officers are generally prohibited from affiliating with political parties. Ntlemeza argued that his constitutional rights allowed him to participate in politics.

Post-Retirement Activities

Since retiring from the police service, Ntlemeza has been active in private investigation and security work. His career trajectory—from dedicated police officer to controversial Hawks leader to political figure—reflects the complexities of South Africa’s law enforcement landscape.

Berning Ntlemeza Family

Berning Ntlemeza is married and has a daughter named Anele.

Berning Ntlemeza Net Worth

Berning Ntlemeza has an estimated net worth of $170,000 as of 2024.

FAQs

When did Ntlemeza become a high-level police official?

Ntlemeza was appointed as Limpopo’s deputy provincial commissioner in 2003.His career began in 1982 as an investigator in the Eastern Cape.

What is the infamous ’27 questions’ incident?

Ntlemeza sent 27 questions to former finance minister Pravin Gordhan, related to an alleged “rogue unit” within the revenue services. Gordhan was later cleared of any wrongdoing.