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Madlanga Commission investigation into South African police

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2026-09-17 11:24 UTC → 2026-09-19 10:34 UTC · added removed

The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry is investigating allegations of corruption, political interference, and criminal infiltration within the South African criminal justice system. Initial proceedings focused on claims of kickbacks and the leaking of confidential docket information. Testimony from alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala suggested that suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya received funds from various individuals. Evidence also surfaced regarding former Hawks head Major-General Lesetja Senona allegedly sending confidential information to Matlala. Subsequent hearings expanded to include allegations of kidnapping and extortion involving the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD). Testimony detailed an incident where officers allegedly abducted a man and his daughter to extort R5 million. Additionally, the commission examined claims that certain officials created “no-go zones” in Johannesburg to protect criminal syndicates from tactical policing. Justice Madlanga noted that the revelations suggest the system has been populated by “malleable, corrupt state functionaries.” Recent proceedings have expanded the scope of inquiry to include the correctional services sector. Correctional Services Commissioner Thobakgale testified regarding significant contraband smuggling within prisons, alleging that guards were involved in smuggling over 100,000 cellphones, drugs, cash, and sharpened objects into facilities. Due to the volume of evidence and the need to hear further expert testimony, President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended the commission’s deadline. The inquiry, originally expected to conclude in November, is now scheduled to submit its final report by January 25, 2027.

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  1. 2026-09-19 10:34 UTC Madlanga Commission investigation into South African police
  2. 2026-09-17 11:24 UTC Madlanga Commission investigation into South African police

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