SABC suspends journalist Natasha Phiri after receiving money for information

The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has placed its journalist, Natasha Phiri, on precautionary suspension after she allegedly received money in exchange for information.

This comes after Sergeant Fannie Nkosi admitted, while testifying at the Madlanga Commission, that he paid her R500.

Last week, the commission heard that Nkosi paid Phiri the money in exchange for the contact number of social media blogger Musa Khawula.

When the commission initially revealed the evidence, Nkosi denied that he had paid Phiri for the information.

However, on Monday, when confronted with the evidence, he had no option but to admit it.

“Now that you have seen it, do you accept that you paid Natasha R500?” said Commissioner Sandile Khumalo.

“I accept it,” Nkosi replied.

The payment was made on November 6, 2024, and the same day, Phiri provided him with Khawula’s number.

Advocate Matthew Chaskalson asked Nkosi to confirm that the R500 was a token of appreciation for Khawula’s number, Nkosi held back and said he would confirm later after verifying their chats.

“I’m not avoiding the question but I’m of the view that sources must be protected and their integrity,” he said.

Following the testimony, the broadcaster released a statement on Monday placing Phiri on precautionary suspension.

“The SABC views this matter in a serious light and has placed Ms Natasha Phiri on precautionary suspension while the matter is being investigated,” read the statement.

sinenhlanhla.masilela@iol.co.za

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