Madlanga Commission Continues Hearings on Police Corruption and Malfeasance in South Africa

Inquiry Delves into Criminal Justice System Integrity

The Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, widely known as the Madlanga Commission, is continuing its critical evidence hearings in South Africa. Chaired by retired Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, the commission was established by President Cyril Ramaphosa on July 23, 2025, following explosive allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

The commission's mandate is to investigate claims that criminal syndicates and political actors have infiltrated various components of the criminal justice system, including policing, intelligence, prosecution, and even parts of the judiciary. Its objective is to make actionable recommendations for prosecutions, disciplinary action, and institutional reform to restore public trust and the rule of law.

Key Testimonies and Allegations in Phase One

Public hearings for the Madlanga Commission commenced on September 17, 2025, at the Brigitte Mabandla Justice College in Pretoria. The initial phase focused on corroborating the claims made by Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who was the first witness. He presented damning allegations against senior officials within the South African Police Service (SAPS) and political figures, including former Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya, accusing them of aiding criminal syndicates and obstructing justice.

Other significant testimonies during this phase included:

• General Fannie Masemola, National Commissioner of the SAPS, who gave evidence on September 22, 2025.
• Dumisani Khumalo, the Crime Intelligence boss, who testified about a sophisticated organized criminal syndicate known as the 'Big Five' cartel, allegedly involved in drug trafficking, hijackings, tender fraud, and contract killings.
• Protected witnesses, identified only as Witnesses A, B, and C, who provided testimony behind closed doors, detailing senior police officers obstructing investigations, corruption at Transnet, and links between alleged underworld figures and police officials.

Phase Two Underway with Scrutinized Evidence

The commission transitioned into its second phase around November 18, 2025, which is designed to allow 'Persons of Interest' to respond to the allegations made against them. During this phase, North West businessman Brown Mogotsi appeared before the commission. His testimony, however, faced significant scrutiny from commissioners, with some describing him as a 'professional liar' due to unsubstantiated claims. Mogotsi was implicated in WhatsApp communications with alleged cartel member Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala, where he reportedly solicited funds in exchange for confidential police information.

Commission's Progress and Challenges

The Madlanga Commission's proceedings have not been without interruptions. An initial delay pushed the start date from September 1, 2025, due to procurement issues related to IT systems. The commission also took a scheduled break from October 6-10, 2025, due to the unavailability of Commissioner Sesi Baloyi, with hearings resuming on October 13, 2025. The inquiry continues to navigate complex evidence and allegations, aiming to uncover the full extent of criminality and corruption within South Africa's criminal justice system.