On 13 July 2025, President Cyril Ramaphosa established the Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System. The Commission, chaired by retired Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, delivered its interim report to the President on 17 December 2025.
Following the report, President Ramaphosa has accepted the Commission’s findings and has directed urgent action, including criminal investigations, disciplinary processes, and possible suspensions.
The Commission was prompted by serious allegations made by Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi about an alleged criminal syndicate operating inside South Africa’s law enforcement and criminal justice systems.
Why it matters to you
The Commission found prima facie evidence of criminality, corruption, fraud, murder, and perjury involving senior officials in the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD).
If proven, these crimes could have weakened the justice system’s ability to protect communities and fight crime effectively. The President’s acceptance of the findings sets the stage for urgent reforms and legal accountability.
What you need to know
Key officials named for referral and investigation:
SAPS:
- Major General Lesetja Senona
- Major General Richard Shibiri
- Brigadier Mbangwa Nkhwashu
- Brigadier Rachel Matjeng
- Sergeant Fannie Nkosi
Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department and Municipality:
- Commissioner Julius Mkhwanazi (suspended EMPD Chief)
- Officer Bafana Twala
- Officer Aiden McKenzie
- Officer Kershia Leigh Stols
- Dr Imogen Mashazi (former EMM City Manager)
- Mr Chris Steyn (fleet manager/proxy)
- Ms Linda Gxasheka (Head of HR)
- Adv Kemi Behari (Head of Legal)
- Mr Etienne van der Walt
These individuals were cited in relation to:
- Criminality and corruption
- Fraud and murder
- Perjury and unlawful conduct
The Commission’s terms of reference, specifically Clauses 7, 10.4, and 12, empower it to recommend suspensions, referrals for prosecution, and disciplinary action.
