T he claims surfaced at a commission established by President Cyril Ramaphosa to investigate deep-rooted corruption within the police service. The probe, known as the Madlanga Commission, was launched after explosive testimony from a senior officer who alleged that criminal syndicates had infiltrated key state institutions—an assertion that ultimately resulted in the removal of the country’s police minister.

Authorities have since confirmed that National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola has been formally served with a summons. According to National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago, the charges will only be disclosed once they are presented in court.

Police spokesperson Brig Athlenda Mathe said Masemola is fully aware of the developments and has undertaken to cooperate with all lawful processes.

President Ramaphosa has acknowledged the situation, which also involves 12 senior police officials implicated in the same contract. Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said efforts are underway to ensure stability within the police service, stressing the importance of maintaining its operational effectiveness during the unfolding legal process.

A Pattern of Controversy

The case adds to a troubling history of senior police officials facing corruption charges while in office.

In a landmark case, former national commissioner Jackie Selebi was convicted in 2010 and sentenced to 15 years in prison for accepting bribes from convicted drug trafficker Glen Agliotti in exchange for protection.

Years later, Khomotso Phahlane was also charged with corruption. While those charges were initially withdrawn in 2018, he was rearrested in 2019 on similar allegations, which he denies. His case remains before the courts.