South Africa’s Police Minister Fikile Mbalula on Friday announced the appointment of Judge Frans Diale Kgomo as the new watchdog for the Directorate Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), more commonly known as the Hawks, with immediate effect.

Making the announcement, Mbalula said Kgomo would be filling the vacancy left following the passing of former Hawks judge Essa Moosa.

Kgomo’s task would be to investigate complaints by members of the public related to the infringement of rights caused by an investigation by the police’s specialised crime fighting unit.

He would also be expected to probe complaints by Hawks’ staff who have evidence of “any improper influence or interference” exerted upon then in relation to their work.