Madlanga Commission hears allegations of police corruption and extortion

The Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, chaired by Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, has heard testimony regarding deep-seated corruption within South African law enforcement.

During recent proceedings, the commission examined allegations of kidnapping and extortion involving officers from the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD). Testimony from a K9 Unit sergeant detailed an incident where officers allegedly abducted a man and his daughter to extort R5 million. Video footage was presented to the commission appearing to show the abduction.

Further allegations were raised regarding the creation of “no-go zones” in Johannesburg. The JMPD Head of Internal Affairs testified that a former superintendent allegedly prevented tactical units from policing specific areas to protect criminal syndicates.

Justice Madlanga expressed hope that the commission’s findings will help stem the tide of criminality, noting that the revelations suggest the criminal justice system has been populated by “malleable, corrupt state functionaries” who allow criminals to evade sanctions.