KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, has alleged that certain journalists are involved in protecting a Gauteng-based drug syndicate. He made the claims during his testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry on Thursday.
The commission, established by President Cyril Ramaphosa, is investigating allegations of criminality, political interference, and corruption within South Africa’s criminal justice system. Mkhwanazi’s testimony highlighted what he described as media involvement in shielding criminal networks, raising concerns about the influence of external actors on law enforcement efforts.
“Some journalists appear to be protecting the so-called drug squad,” Mkhwanazi told the commission, without naming individuals.
The Madlanga Commission is expected to continue its hearings in the coming days, with further revelations anticipated. Observers say Mkhwanazi’s statements could have serious implications for both media ethics and police accountability in the country