S enona confirmed on Tuesday that he was escorted out of his office and that his phones and electronic devices were confiscated, saying the move was ordered by KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Senona stated that he has not received a formal suspension letter and remains uncertain about his employment status.

However, the Hawks have indicated that Senona remains a member of the organisation, and that internal processes are under way.

Allegations and Denials

The developments follow Senona’s appearance before the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, chaired by Judge Madlanga.

At the commission, Senona denied allegations that he deliberately shared sensitive police information with alleged criminal cartel-linked businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, describing the claims as malicious and untrue.

However, during testimony, Senona acknowledged that he personally sent a letter relating to the disbandment of the political killings task team to Matlala, stating that he did so on his own accord and was merely “sharing” the document. This admission appeared to contradict earlier assertions that he had not improperly shared confidential information.

Senona also told the commission that while he was attempting to assist fully, he was unable to recall certain details, citing memory lapses when questioned on key issues.

Relationship With Matlala Under Scrutiny

Evidence Leader Advocate Matthew Hassim questioned Senona extensively about his relationship with Matlala, particularly following a 5 March 2025 News24 report detailing criminal allegations against the businessman.

Senona told the commission that the article prompted him to reconsider and distance himself from Matlala, saying he had “serious deliberations” with him and began withdrawing their association. Despite this, Senona conceded that he later accompanied Matlala to a 15 April 2025 meeting with Lt. Gen Mkhwanazi.

Under questioning, Senona admitted he was aware that Matlala’s office had been raided in connection with firearms linked to his security company. However, he denied closely following media reports alleging Matlala’s involvement in criminal activities, including claims of illegal use of blue lights and other high-profile allegations.

Senona stated that his WhatsApp communications with Matlala did not include media articles relating to these accusations.

Babita Deokaran Questions

The commission also questioned Senona about his knowledge of Babita Deokaran, the Gauteng health department whistleblower who was murdered in 2021 after exposing corruption at Tembisa Hospital.

Senona acknowledged knowing Deokaran and her role in uncovering corruption but maintained that he was not aware of any links between Matlala and the Tembisa Hospital corruption scandal.

Advocate Hassim referred to multiple media reports, including a February 2023 News24 article, which alleged Matlala’s involvement. Senona responded that he was not monitoring media coverage on the matter.

Commissioner Sesi Baloyi expressed skepticism regarding Senona’s claims, noting the seriousness of the allegations and the high-profile nature of Deokaran’s murder. Deokaran was shot 12 times shortly after dropping her then 12-year-old daughter at school.

Unanswered Questions

Senona has stated that following his removal from office, he was followed home and now fears for his safety. SAPS leadership has not publicly commented on these claims.

The commission has recommended further investigation, and potential criminal charges have not been ruled out. It remains unclear whether Senona’s removal from office forms part of a formal disciplinary process or an interim administrative measure.

As the investigation continues, the situation highlights growing tensions within the KwaZulu-Natal policing structures and raises renewed concerns about internal accountability, political interference, and corruption within the criminal justice system.