A civilian, Ze Nxumalo, appears to have exercised extensive control over police operations, including investigations. Cellphone records presented at the Madlanga Commission on Monday revealed that Nxumalo maintained frequent contact with several officers, keeping them updated on Khawula’s movements and directing their actions.
One officer reportedly acting on Nxumalo’s instructions is Sergeant Fannie Nkosi. Authorities believe Nkosi served as a go-between for suspended Deputy National Commissioner Major-General Shadrack Sibiya, as well as alleged criminal masterminds Katiso KT Molefe and Vusimuzi Cat Matlala, among others.
Nkosi testified at the inquiry on Monday, admitting to most of the activities he and other officials carried out under Nxumalo’s direction.
At one point, at least six police officers traveled to the Free State to attend a weekend festival, hoping to apprehend the blogger Khawula. The attempt failed, as he did not attend the event. Nxumalo had purchased tickets for the officers to attend.
During questioning, Evidence Leader Mathew Chaskalson clarified:
“Just to clarify, the tickets for the concert where you failed to find Mr. Khawula—if one looks at pages 1, 2, 3, and 8—show that the concert was held at Kroon Park Holiday Resort.”
“That’s correct,” Nkosi replied.
“That’s in Kroonstad, isn’t it?”
“Yes.”
“So this operation took six policemen from Gauteng to Kroonstad?”
“Yes.”
Nkosi conceded that the intense search for Khawula was directed by Nxumalo, a complainant in the matter.
Commission Chairperson Justice Mbuyiseni Madlanga noted that the trip to the Free State did not include the investigating officer.
“With the possibility of a seventh, the investigating officer,” Madlanga added.