KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, has testified in court that the establishment of the so-called Amapanyaza unit by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi is unlawful. The testimony was delivered during proceedings held on October 8, 2025, in Pretoria.
Mkhwanazi stated that the creation of this specialised unit within the Gauteng provincial administration lacks legal backing and does not comply with South Africa’s law enforcement regulations. The unit, reportedly named after the Premier, has faced criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups, who argue that its formation may breach constitutional provisions relating to policing and administrative powers.
According to the commissioner, provincial authorities do not have the mandate to establish independent policing units outside the South African Police Service (SAPS) framework. Mkhwanazi emphasised that creating such units without proper authorisation could lead to operational confusion and undermine the authority of the national police service. The formation of this unit appears to fall outside the legal framework governing law enforcement in South Africa. It is essential that any policing unit operates within the law to ensure accountability and public trust, he said.
The so-called Amapanyaza unit has been a controversial topic in Gauteng, with debates over its purpose, budget, and chain of command. Critics claim the unit’s creation may reflect political interests rather than operational necessity, potentially diverting resources from mainstream policing priorities. Supporters, however, argue that it is intended to improve law enforcement efficiency in specific areas of the province.
Mkhwanazi’s testimony adds weight to the arguments of legal experts and civil society groups who have called for a review of the unit’s legality. They argue that adherence to proper legal and constitutional procedures is critical to maintaining law and order and preventing the politicisation of security services.
The Gauteng provincial government has not yet released an official response to Mkhwanazi’s testimony. However, sources close to the administration indicate that discussions are ongoing, and a legal assessment of the unit’s status may follow.
Observers note that the outcome of this case could have wider implications for governance and policing in South Africa. If the court rules the unit unlawful, it may set a precedent regarding the limits of provincial authority in establishing specialised enforcement teams.
This development highlights ongoing tensions between political leadership and law enforcement oversight in the country. The case continues to attract attention from media, legal analysts, and the public, with many watching closely to see whether Gauteng’s controversial unit will remain operational.
