RECAP: Madlanga Commission reveals shocking allegations against top police officials

The first three days of testimony at the Madlanga Commission painted a damning picture of factional battles, abuse of power, and political meddling at the highest levels of the South African Police Service (SAPS). 

KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi was the driving force behind the explosive allegations.

Here are the critical highlights from his three days on the stand:

Interference by Bheki Cele

Mkhwanazi alleged that former Police Minister Bheki Cele attempted to influence an internal investigation. He requested Mkhwanazi persuade Crime Intelligence boss Lt-Gen Dumisani Khumalo to take a temporary resignation, which raised eyebrows given that Khumalo was investigating General Feroz Khan for connections to controversial businessman Brown Mogotsi and tender kingpin Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.

Concerns Over Justice Obstruction

Mkhwanazi expressed his unease about Cele's sudden interest in recruiting Khumalo, as they had not had a good relationship previously. Khumalo himself found the request suspicious, believing it was an attempt to back off the investigation. Mkhwanazi highlighted this as a severe obstruction of justice.

WhatsApp Conversations Shed Light on Dark Deals

The commission was presented with screenshots of alleged WhatsApp conversations between Mogotsi and Matlala, revealing dealings that raised further concerns about police tender manipulation and potential political interference. These messages hinted at shady contracts tied to SAPS and discussions with Minister Senzo Mchunu.

Questionable Messaging Surrounding Political Killings Task Team

Alarmingly, one message from Mogotsi suggested a deliberate stepping back following the disbanding of the Political Killings Task Team, questioning why Mkhwanazi's name was involved in such private discussions among businessmen and senior officials.

Financial Irregularities Raised

The chats further referenced issues around cybersecurity hires and logistics for guests accompanying the Police Minister to an ANC rally. Investigators have begun to gather receipts and hotel records linking these claims.

Calls for Subpoenas

While Mkhwanazi did not confirm the authenticity of the "Minister Mchunu" mentioned in the WhatsApp exchanges, he called for the Commission to subpoena Mogotsi, Matlala, and Mchunu for further clarification on their roles in these alleged activities.

Retaliation Against Criticism

Mkhwanazi didn’t shy away from addressing criticism from forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan, linking his remarks to an alleged connection with Deputy Commissioner Sibiya, whose dealings had raised flags in Mkhwanazi's mind. He challenged O’Sullivan to prove his claims under oath.

A Damning Picture of Factional Battles

The testimonies over the three days illustrated a troubling landscape of factionalism, abuse of power, and political meddling within the SAPS. The commission is anticipated to resume next week, increasing pressure on high-profile individuals to address the mounting allegations.

The Commission is expected to continue next week with mounting pressure to compel high-profile witnesses to respond to the allegations.

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