The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has dismissed concerns that its work could be compromised by internal discord, following reports that its chief evidence leader, advocate Terry Motau, is seeking to exit the inquiry. The City Press reported over the weekend that Motau had formally requested to leave the commission, which is chaired by retired Constitutional Court Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga.
Despite the speculation, the commission says it remains focused on its mandate and will proceed with scheduled hearings on Monday. Corruption-accused Crime Intelligence head, Lieutenant General Dumisani Khumalo, is expected to testify.
Khumalo is considered a central figure in the commission’s investigation into alleged criminal infiltration of South Africa’s law enforcement agencies. His name has come up repeatedly during previous public hearings.In a statement issued on Sunday, commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels said internal staffing matters would not be discussed in public, adding that the inquiry’s work would not be derailed by distractions.
“We are squarely focused on the commission’s mandate, which is to investigate serious allegations that law enforcement agencies have been infiltrated by criminal syndicates and drug cartels,” said Michaels.
“This work is critically important for upholding the rule of law in our country.”
Khumalo’s appearance before the commission comes just weeks after his arrest by the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) on fraud and corruption charges.
The charges are linked to the controversial appointment of Dineo Mokwele to a senior position in the Crime Intelligence unit, despite her reportedly lacking prior policing experience.Sources within the police service say Khumalo’s arrest has sparked internal tensions, particularly with KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
According to insiders, Mkhwanazi believes the arrest is politically motivated and aimed at derailing ongoing investigations into a powerful criminal network operating in Gauteng. Mkhwanazi has reportedly accused elements within the criminal justice system of shielding the syndicate from scrutiny.
The Madlanga Commission’s hearings are expected to continue throughout the week.