The Directorate of Special Operations (DSO), commonly known as the Scorpions, was a specialised unit of the National Prosecuting Authority of South Africa formed by President Thabo Mbeki, tasked with investigating and prosecuting high-level and priority crimes including organised crime and corruption. An independent and multidisciplinary unit with a unique methodology which combined investigation, forensic intelligence, and prosecution, the Scorpions were known as an elite unit, and were involved in several extremely high-profile investigations, especially into the Arms Deal and into high-ranking African National Congress (ANC) politicians including Jackie Selebi, Jacob Zuma, and Tony Yengeni.
Scorpions (South Africa)
The ANC under Jacob Zuma resolved to disband the Scorpions
Helen Zille was a vocal supporter of the Scorpions
The Strategic Defence Package, popularly known as the Arms Deal, was a major defence procurement programme undertaken to re-equip the South African armed forces for the post-apartheid era. It is commonly associated with the large-scale corruption that is alleged to have taken place during and after the procurement process. Some critics have said that the Arms Deal was a defining moment or turning point for the African National Congress (ANC) government, less than five years into its tenure.
A critical banner on the Central Methodist Mission in Cape Town compares the Arms Deal to a golden calf.
The apartheid-era military was symbolised by the Casspir, often deployed in townships to quell unrest.
The Arms Deal was initiated while Joe Modise was Defence Minister.
Patricia de Lille's allegations of Arms Deal misconduct caused a scandal in 1999.