Madlanga Commission investigates South African police corruption allegations

The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry is investigating allegations of corruption, political interference, and criminal infiltration within South African law enforcement agencies. During recent proceedings, alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala testified regarding claims that suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya received kickbacks from various individuals in Gauteng.

Matlala stated that he learned of these allegations through a third party, specifically identifying detained SAPS Sergeant Fannie Nkosi as a source. While Matlala declined to name the specific individuals allegedly providing funds to avoid self-incrimination, the commission is seeking to establish the identities of those involved. Sibiya has denied all corruption allegations, maintaining he has never been a ‘rogue officer’.

The inquiry also examined Matlala’s connections to other high-ranking officials. Evidence presented included WhatsApp messages allegedly showing former KwaZulu-Natal Hawks head Major-General Lesetja Senona sending confidential SAPS docket information to Matlala. Matlala further testified that Senona had allegedly requested his assistance in persuading a suspected transnational kidnapping kingpin to withdraw charges against a police official.