A new development has emerged in the bail proceedings involving former police official Shadrack Sibiya after a recorded phone conversation involving controversial socialite Serge Cabonge was presented in court.
The recording was reportedly introduced by the State during Sibiya’s bail hearing at the Randburg Magistrates’ Court. According to allegations presented in court, Cabonge allegedly claimed to have close ties with an official at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
The conversation reportedly captures Cabonge claiming that the official had promised to protect him and ensure that he would not be summoned to testify before the commission.
The allegations have raised questions about possible interactions involving individuals connected to the commission. However, the claims contained in the recording have not, on the information available, been independently established.
Madlanga Commission responds to recording
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has acknowledged the existence of the recordings and indicated that it intends to engage with Cabonge and obtain a statement from him.
This step forms part of the commission’s broader investigative work as it examines matters falling within its mandate.
The commission’s response signals that the allegations may receive further scrutiny. However, the reported claims do not, by themselves, establish that any commission official acted improperly or that Cabonge was formally exempted from appearing before the inquiry.
Cabonge previously mentioned in commission proceedings
Cabonge has previously been mentioned during commission proceedings in connection with his alleged links to Vusumuzi “Cat” Matlala.
Matlala has featured in matters attracting public attention around alleged criminal networks and questions concerning law enforcement. Any allegations involving individuals mentioned in commission proceedings must still be assessed on the available evidence.
The latest recording adds another development to the ongoing proceedings involving Sibiya.