The Madlanga Commission, tasked with investigating systemic issues within South Africa’s criminal justice system, has announced that portions of the hearings will be conducted in secrecy to safeguard witnesses and sensitive information. The inquiry will officially commence on Wednesday, 17 September 2025, amid growing concerns over political interference and criminal infiltration within law enforcement agencies.
During a media briefing held in Pretoria, Evidence Leader Mathews Chaskelson emphasised that witnesses who fear for their safety, or who are providing sensitive testimony involving state secrets, will testify in camera—meaning behind closed doors. “We understand the need for transparency but where state secrets are concerned, such evidence will not be revealed to the public,” Chaskelson stated. He highlighted particularly risky situations involving undercover police operatives embedded within criminal syndicates, whose identities must be protected to ensure their safety.
In light of potential threats, the commission is finalising agreements with private security firms to provide witness protection. This initiative was detailed by commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels, who assured that any witness who feels threatened will receive necessary security support, facilitated by a reputable organisation experienced in witness protection.
“To protect the integrity of the process and all gathered evidence, we are also enlisting the services of a cybersecurity firm. Given the high stakes of our investigations, we want to ensure that we are not hacked or compromised in any other manner,” said Michaels, underlining the commission’s commitment to upholding the safety and security of all participants involved in the inquiry.
Ongoing allegations of infiltration by criminal syndicates into law enforcement have led to significant political repercussions, including the placement of Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on special leave. In his stead, veteran politician and academic Firoz Cachalia has been appointed as acting minister. This turmoil is driven by charges made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who is set to be the first witness to testify at the inquiry.
Michaels also affirmed that the commission aims to maintain a collaborative relationship with the parliamentary portfolio committee investigating similar claims, assuring that its work will not hinder ongoing police operations. As the inquiry looms, the eyes of the nation remain fixed on the commission’s proceedings, which promise to shed light on the critical intersection of crime, politics, and governance in South Africa.