The South African Police Service (SAPS) has dismissed widespread rumours that Crime Intelligence head Lieutenant General Dumisani Khumalo was poisoned, stating that there is no evidence to support such claims. The speculation began circulating on social media after Khumalo suddenly fell ill during his testimony before the Madlanga Judicial Commission of Inquiry, prompting concerns and public debate about possible foul play.
Khumalo, who also serves as the head of the Political Killings Task Team, became unwell on the third day of his testimony, forcing the suspension of the hearings on October 1. The Commission later paused proceedings from October 6 to 10 to accommodate one of its commissioners, Sesi Baloyi, who had official commitments. His sudden illness, however, fueled online theories linking his condition to his explosive testimony implicating influential figures in politics and business.
National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola confirmed that Khumalo’s health is improving and he is expected to make a full recovery soon. Masemola emphasized that SAPS has not received any official reports or medical evidence suggesting poisoning. “There is nothing at this stage to indicate that General Khumalo’s illness was the result of any malicious act,” he said, urging the public to refrain from spreading unverified information.
The Commission’s spokesperson, Jeremy Michaels, stated that when hearings resume, they may proceed behind closed doors due to the sensitive nature of upcoming testimonies. Khumalo is not expected to return immediately and will continue his evidence once he is medically cleared. Michaels reiterated the Commission’s commitment to transparency, assuring that the public will be updated once normal proceedings resume.
Before his illness, Khumalo’s testimony had already made waves for its serious allegations about the influence of powerful businessmen within state and judicial structures. His sudden health scare has intensified public interest, but police insist the focus should remain on verified facts and Khumalo’s recovery.