Suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner for Crime Detection, Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya, returned to the stand for the third day at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, facing escalating accusations of unilaterally interfering with the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) dockets. The commission, chaired by retired Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, is probing criminality, political interference, and corruption within South Africa’s criminal justice system.
Evidence leader Adila Hassim SC grilled Sibiya over his decision to redirect 121 PKTT dockets—114 of which were already on the court roll—to General Khosi Senthumule, bypassing instructions from Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and National Commissioner Fannie Masemola. Hassim asserted this move confirmed Sibiya acted independently, potentially obstructing justice and delaying probes into political murders. Sibiya defended his actions as within his mandate as head of detectives, claiming it stemmed from a consultative process to expedite the PKTT’s disbandment, ordered by Mchunu on December 31, 2024. He admitted the transfer caused disruptions but denied personal involvement in relocating dockets from KwaZulu-Natal, attributing it to PKTT head Lieutenant-General Dumisani Khumalo.
In explosive revelations, Sibiya accused a senior police official of receiving a sponsored Brazilian butt lift (BBL) from alleged crime boss “Cat” Matlala, along with other gifts. Acting Deputy Commissioner General Hilda Senthumule categorically denied any personal relationship with Matlala in a sworn affidavit, stating she has “nothing to hide.” Sibiya also expressed feeling “oppressed” after Commissioner Baloyi challenged him on a January 3, 2025, email that did not authorize PKTT deactivation.
Adding to the drama, Pakistani businessman Imran Butt filed papers to appear before the commission, alleging Sibiya accepted bribes from him and is linked to human and drug trafficking syndicates. Butt’s claims surfaced after Sibiya mentioned him during testimony.
Public reactions on social media branded Sibiya’s testimony evasive, with some calling the proceedings a “circus.” The inquiry highlights deep-seated issues of SAPS integrity amid ongoing crime challenges.
Sibiya’s cross-examination continues, with the commission adjourned until next week.

