Two public inquiries are examining explosive allegations of criminal infiltration and political interference within South Africa’s police force, following claims by a top general.
The probes were launched after KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi alleged in July that organised crime groups had infiltrated the government. He specifically accused Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, now on special leave, of having ties to crime kingpins and dismantling an elite unit investigating political murders. Mchunu denies wrongdoing.
The key findings so far include:
The “Big Five” Drug Cartel
Police crime intelligence boss Lieutenant-General Dumisani Khumalo testified about a powerful drug trafficking network, the “Big Five,” which he said has “penetrated the political sphere.” The alleged cartel is involved in narcotics, contract killings, and cross-border crimes, and uses its influence to manipulate investigations. Khumalo named businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, currently facing 25 criminal charges including attempted murder, as a key figure.
The Central Figure: “Cat” Matlala
Matlala is central to the allegations against the suspended minister. Mkhwanazi presented evidence of payments from Matlala to fund Mchunu’s political activities. At a parliamentary inquiry, Matlala admitted making donations for ANC events but denied knowing senior officials personally. He also alleged that former Police Minister Bheki Cele demanded a bribe, which Cele denies.
A Murdered Witness
The inquiries turned deadly in December when a Madlanga Commission witness, Marius van der Merwe (identified as “Witness D”), was shot dead at his home weeks after testifying. He had implicated police officials in wrongdoing. No arrests have been made, and the motive is unclear.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has received an interim report from the Madlanga Commission. The parallel investigations continue into 2026, aiming to untangle the alleged web of corruption linking criminals, police, and politicians.
