Who is Paul O’Sullivan? The forensic investigator set to appear before parliament’s SAPS Ad Hoc Committee

Forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan is expected to appear before Parliament’s SAPS Ad Hoc Committee on Tuesday, with security arrangements firmly in place. Multiple sources have confirmed that O’Sullivan will deliver his testimony in person, following concerns that previously prevented his attendance.

O’Sullivan was scheduled to appear before the committee last week but did not testify after raising serious security concerns. Those concerns have since been addressed, paving the way for his appearance under heightened protection.

The SAPS Ad Hoc Committee is currently examining issues linked to policing oversight and accountability, and O’Sullivan’s testimony is anticipated to add weight to ongoing discussions. His appearance comes amid growing public interest in the committee’s work and its broader implications for law enforcement reform.

On Monday, however, the committee will not hear from any witnesses. Instead, Members of Parliament are expected to focus on internal administrative matters, including finalising witness schedules and addressing procedural issues related to upcoming hearings.

O’Sullivan’s testimony is expected to resume the committee’s evidence-gathering phase, with lawmakers keen to hear his insights and allegations based on years of investigative work involving senior figures within South Africa’s criminal justice system.

10 Things to Know About Paul O’Sullivan

1. Paul O’Sullivan is a well-known forensic investigator and anti-corruption activist in South Africa.

2. He is the founder of Forensics for Justice, an organisation focused on investigating corruption and serious crime.

   
   
   

3. O’Sullivan is known for pursuing high-profile cases involving senior police officials and public figures.

4. His work has frequently brought him into conflict with powerful individuals within state institutions.

5. Over the years, he has claimed to face repeated threats due to his investigations.

6. O’Sullivan has previously testified before commissions of inquiry and parliamentary structures.

7. He has been an outspoken critic of corruption within the South African Police Service.

   
   
   

8. His investigations have contributed to disciplinary actions and criminal cases against senior officers.

9. O’Sullivan often works closely with whistleblowers and civil society organisations.

10. He remains a polarising figure, praised by supporters for his persistence and criticised by detractors for his confrontational style.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is Paul O’Sullivan?
Paul O’Sullivan is a South African forensic investigator and anti-corruption activist known for investigating high-level crime and police misconduct.

Why is Paul O’Sullivan appearing before Parliament?
He has been invited to testify before Parliament’s SAPS Ad Hoc Committee as part of its work on policing oversight and accountability.

Why is his testimony taking place under tight security?
O’Sullivan previously raised concerns about his personal safety, which led to enhanced security arrangements for his appearance.

Why didn’t he testify last week?
He did not appear due to unresolved security concerns at the time.

What is the SAPS Ad Hoc Committee?
It is a parliamentary committee tasked with examining issues related to the South African Police Service.

Is the committee hearing witnesses on Monday?
No. MPs are using Monday to deal with internal matters, including scheduling future witnesses.

What is expected from O’Sullivan’s testimony?
Lawmakers expect insights based on his investigative work, particularly concerning alleged corruption and misconduct within law enforcement.