Former apartheid assassination squad commander Eugene de Kock has told the Khampepe Commission that he was always willing to testify against senior apartheid-era generals and politicians, but claims the National Prosecuting Authority never approached him for evidence.

He accused former prosecutor Anton Ackerman of shielding senior generals and politicians from prosecution, claiming he was removed because he posed a threat to the system.

Much of his criticism was directed at former senior prosecutor Anton Ackermann, whom he accused of misleading him about plans to prosecute senior apartheid-era figures.

De Kock alleged that despite numerous meetings, prosecutors never took formal statements from him about those he says gave the orders.

He further claimed the NPA maintained strict control over access to him while he was incarcerated. Several parties have indicated that they intend to apply to cross-examine De Kock on his evidence.

Meanwhile, he claimed that former president PW Botha directly ordered the bombing of Cosatu House.

De Kock also implicated former president FW de Klerk in the killing of five children in Umtata. He argued that those at the top of the apartheid security structure benefited from the failure to pursue prosecutions after the Truth and Reconciliation Commission process.

The Khampepe Commission has adjourned proceedings until 28 October, when further testimony is expected.