What is happening?
President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the interim report of the Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, chaired by retired Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga. The report was submitted on 17 December 2025, and the President released his formal response on 29 January 2026.
The Commission was established in July 2025 after serious allegations by Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi about a criminal syndicate operating within South Africa’s criminal justice system.
Why it matters to you
The interim report names senior officials in the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Ekurhuleni Metro who may face suspension, criminal investigation, or prosecution.
If you live in areas affected by corrupt or compromised policing, these decisions could affect how law enforcement operates and how future crimes are handled.
The outcome of these investigations may also restore trust in the criminal justice system and help stop further political interference or fraud.
What you need to know
The Commission found prima facie evidence (initial evidence strong enough to merit investigation) of wrongdoing by the following individuals:
SAPS officials referred for investigation:
- Major General Lesetja Senona
- Major General Richard Shibiri
- Brigadier Mbangwa Nkhwashu
- Brigadier Rachel Matjeng
- Sergeant Fannie Nkosi
Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality officials named:
- EMPD Chief of Police Commissioner Julius Mkhwanazi (suspended)
- EMPD Officer Bafana Twala
- EMPD Officer Aiden McKenzie
- EMPD Officer Kershia Leigh Stols
- Former City Manager Dr Imogen Mashazi
- Fleet Manager Chris Steyn
- Head of HR Ms Linda Gxasheka
- Head of Legal Adv Kemi Behari
- Mr Etienne van der Walt
Key points from the report:
- Allegations include fraud, murder, perjury, corruption, and unlawful conduct.
- Referrals have been made to:
- SAPS
- Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID)
- Ekurhuleni Municipality
- Some implicated officials have not yet presented their responses.
- These are not final findings, but serious allegations that require further investigation.
What you should do next
If you are directly affected by these officials or have lodged complaints previously:
- You may follow up with SAPS or IPID on any open case linked to these names.
- If you work in law enforcement, note that internal disciplinary measures may now follow for implicated personnel.
- Public servants should be aware of stricter accountability measures expected in future.
For concerned citizens:
- Watch for updates from the Presidency, IPID, and the Department of Police regarding progress on these investigations.
- Report any related misconduct to official channels.
