Top Police Official Testifies on Criminal Syndicate Infiltration in South Africa
Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi testified that criminal syndicates have infiltrated South Africa’s police and justice system, risking collapse without systemic reforms and oversight, experts say.
- On September 17, 2025, KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi testified, accusing senior government and police officials, including the head of the police ministry and a deputy commissioner, of collaborating with criminal syndicates in South Africa.
- His accusations stemmed from claims that Mchunu and Sibiya had disbanded a specialized police team probing murders linked to political motives, purportedly to shield criminals with political ties, which led President Ramaphosa to establish a commission of inquiry.
- Mchunu and Sibiya were suspended and are expected to testify, while the commission faces criticism and a planned legal challenge by the opposition party Umkhonto we Sizwe for its legality.
- Crime expert Louise Edwards emphasized that meaningful improvements in law enforcement depend on the commission’s recommendations resulting in tangible accountability, comprehensive changes, and ongoing supervision to address declining police morale.
- Mkhwanazi warned the criminal justice system faces continuous threat and risk of collapse unless action is taken, while South Africa’s parliament separately investigates these serious corruption claims amid high crime rates.
The ongoing inquiry into the alleged infiltration of South Africa’s police and justice system by criminal syndicates saw a significant development on Wednesday. Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, took the stand to testify on his previous claims that sent shock waves across the nation.
Mkhwanazi initially stirred controversy in July during a news conference when he asserted that some high-ranking politicians and police officials were meddling in sensitive investigations, allegedly to protect drug cartels and criminal organizations. This bombshell revelation prompted a loud public outcry, leading President Cyril Ramaphosa to establish a dedicated commission to investigate these allegations.
