By Marcus Moloko
During the hearings of the Madlanga Commission, suspended SAPS Organised Crime Investigations head Major-General Richard Shibiri repeatedly resisted naming individuals, believed to be members of a possible Big 5 cartel.
Despite persistent questioning from commissioners and evidence leaders, including Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, Advocate Lee Segeels-Ncube, Commissioner Sandile Khumalo, and Commissioner Sesi Baloyi SC, Shibiri remained tight-lipped about the alleged conspirators.
Among the names linked in earlier testimony were EFF leader Julius Malema, businessman Steven Motsumi, and alleged cartel member Katiso “KT” Molefe.
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Shibiri also acknowledged connections to a “Zee” Ngomane and financial dealings with Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala, but refused to confirm or expand on these relationships under oath.
He declined to identify a third member of the “Big 5,” citing fears for his life and the safety of those close to him.
Commissioner Sesi Baloyi SC pressed Shibiri on his reluctance, framing the issue as one of public accountability. She outlined several possible explanations for his silence:
Baloyi noted the risk that Shibiri’s refusal could be interpreted as shielding certain figures from exposure.
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She acknowledged that withholding names might be justified if investigations were still in early stages and disclosure could compromise them, but she emphasized that Shibiri’s fear for his own safety, and potentially that of his family and colleagues, was a recurring theme.
She reminded him that generals tasked with investigating organized crime should not be seen as intimidated into silence.
Baloyi’s questioning highlighted the tension between the Commission’s mandate to uncover the truth and Shibiri’s insistence on self-preservation.
She warned that without a clear explanation, the public might draw its own conclusion, either that Shibiri was protecting powerful individuals or that law enforcement leadership was compromised by fear.
Shibiri eventually conceded that his refusal was rooted in safety concerns and explained that the individuals in question were dangerous and well-connected.
He stressed that their reach extended beyond him personally, potentially endangering families and associates.
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While his statement underscored the gravity of organized crime’s influence, it did little to satisfy commissioners seeking transparency.
Despite repeated attempts by Baloyi and others, the Commission received no confirmation of additional alleged co-conspirators. The names remained undisclosed, leaving the inquiry with unresolved gaps.
The hearing closed with the Commission acknowledging the impasse. Shibiri clearly knew the alleged individuals but opted to remain silent, effectively protecting some in high positions.