Committee investigating police corruption trims witness list as November deadline approaches
SAPS Corruption Probe: Key Witnesses Identified as Committee Narrows Focus
Image: Armand Hough / Independent Newspapers
An intense parliamentary inquiry into corruption allegations within the South African Police Service (SAPS) has taken a strategic turn as the Ad Hoc Committee investigating the claims recommended the removal of several individuals from its sprawling witness list.
The committee is examining allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal SAPS head General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who implicated high-ranking officials in orchestrating the dismantling of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT)—a specialised unit charged with investigating politically motivated murders.
On Wednesday, Advocate Norman Arendse SC, the committee’s evidence leader, briefed members on the latest developments regarding the witness roster.
The list initially contained over 30 names, but now the committee aims to streamline proceedings ahead of its scheduled conclusion in November.
“There are some witnesses we’re of the view are not either necessary or there’s no need for them to give us information because we have sufficient data,” Arendse explained.
This move follows the testimony of Deputy Minister Cassel Mathale on Tuesday, which provided substantial evidence, allowing the committee to focus on the most pertinent accounts.
However, Arendse emphasised the continued importance of specific key individuals.
Cedric Nkabinde, Chief of Staff to suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, was highlighted as a crucial witness due to his repeated mentions in connection with alleged police interference.
“Nkabinde’s name has cropped up repeatedly. He is an important witness, and we’ve proposed calling him on the 13th and 14th of November,” Arendse said.
In addition to Nkabinde, Brown Mogotsi, who is alleged to be Mchunu’s associate, has been requested to appear from November 18 to 20 to respond to claims that he attempted to influence the disbandment of the PKTT.
Among the political voices shaping the inquiry, EFF MP Leigh-Ann Mathys moved to summon Ekurhuleni Metro Police Chief Julius Mkhwanazi and raised questions regarding the logistics of securing the appearance of murder suspect Vusimizi “Cat” Matlala, currently incarcerated.
Mathys also insisted that General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi himself must be the final witness to appear in the proceedings."
Meanwhile, ANC MP Khusela Diko sought clarity on the legal framework surrounding committee members implicated by witnesses. Concerns were raised about members whom Mkhwanazi had alleged they maintained close ties with those who were interfering in police affairs.
The committee resolved to task parliament’s evidence leaders with preparing a legal report to be presented next Tuesday.
This report will address the selection of essential witnesses and relevant legal considerations necessary to avoid procedural delays.
Meanwhile, the committee has thus far heard from several prominent figures.
National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola and Deputy National Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya have provided insights into the deep-rooted corruption and systemic challenges confronting SAPS.
Former Police Minister Bheki Cele’s testimony has been closely scrutinized for indications of political undercurrents that may influence corruption networks.
The contribution of Deputy Minister Cassel Mathale has added another complex layer to the inquiry, as has the testimony of suspended Minister Senzo Mchunu, who vehemently denied all allegations against him during his appearance last week.
As the committee approaches the final phase of its hearings, MPs argued that narrowing the witness list will help the committee move towards efficiency and focus, aiming to untangle the web of claims surrounding the alleged corruption that has rocked South Africa’s law enforcement community.
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