An expert from the South African Police Service (SAPS) is expected to testify before the Madlanga Commission on Thursday, as damning allegations of criminality and corruption engulf the Ministry of Police.
This marks the sixth day of public hearings, with the legal division official becoming the third witness to take the stand.
The testimony follows explosive accounts from KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lt-Gen. Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and National Police Commissioner Gen. Fannie Masemola.
Central to today’s hearing will be the legal scrutiny of Police Minister Senzo Mchunu’s controversial decision to disband the KZN Political Killings Task Team (PKTT).
This is a move that has sparked national outrage and speculation over political interference in high-profile investigations.
The legal expert is expected to provide a deep dive into the legislative framework governing SAPS operations, offering critical insight into the extent of ministerial authority and accountability.
Thursday’s testimony is also set to revisit the recent suspension of Deputy Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya. This will also include his involvement in the alleged corruption scandals.
Masemola previously testified that Sibiya unlawfully attempted to transfer 121 politically sensitive case dockets—originally under the KZN PKTT—to his Pretoria office.
Masemola claimed the move was an attempt to shield criminal syndicates operating in Gauteng.
Meanwhile, Masemola also told the commission that President Cyril Ramaphosa knew about the disbandment of the PKTT but nothing was done.
However, in a worrying twist, he said Mchunu had told him that Ramaphosa agreed to the PKTT being dissolved.
This is a move he said was concerning because the president was taken aback to know that the task team was being disbanded.
The commission, chaired by retired Justice Madlanga, is probing systemic corruption, political interference, and alleged cartel protection within the upper echelons of SAPS.
Another key witness is expected to testify on Friday, as the inquiry intensifies its examination into one of the most significant police scandals in recent South African history.
kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za
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