Marucs Moloko
South Africa’s criminal justice system faces scrutiny amid explosive allegations.
South Africa’s criminal justice system is reeling from a week of damning revelations, political tension, and public outrage. From Parliament to the courtroom, the spotlight has intensified on police leadership, corruption, and youth violence.
Read: Former Police Minister Bheki Cele in the hot seat.
Former Police Minister Bheki Cele faced a barrage of questions this week from Parliament’s ad hoc committee investigating misconduct and political interference in the South African Police Service (SAPS).
EFF MP Leigh-Ann Mathys challenged Cele’s past praise of former commissioner Jackie Selebi and criticism of Riah Phiyega, whom Cele accused of “deliberately” dismantling SAPS structures under Jacob Zuma’s presidency.
Cele stood firm, stating:
“If someone wants to steal, but you have a bulldog, they’ll remove the teeth from the bulldog.”
His remarks underscored concerns about systemic weakening of law enforcement institutions, including the National Prosecuting Authority and State Security Agency.
READ: How a tender tycoon is linked to the SAPS
At the Madlanga Commission, Witness C, a forensic investigator with the Political Killings Task Team, implicated senior SAPS officials in a R1.2 billion tender scandal involving businessman Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala.
Deputy National Commissioner Shadrick Sibiya and KZN Hawks head Lesetja Senona were named as alleged beneficiaries of kickbacks, facilitated through a courier known as Sergeant Nkosi.
The testimony painted a grim picture of entrenched corruption within SAPS, with Witness C revealing that Crime Intelligence’s Khan “regularly used” Matlala’s Menlyn Main penthouse.
READ: How a certain tall Zulu man is implicated
Entrepreneur Ze Nxumalo, known for his ventures in transport and digital mentorship, was linked by Witness A as part of a network tied to controversial businessman Katiso “KT” Molefe, currently under investigation for murder.
Nxumalo’s connections allegedly extend to suspended SAPS official Shadrack Sibiya.
Despite the explosive claims, Nxumalo has not been formally charged. He continues to lead Mobalyz, a youth empowerment platform, and recently filed a defamation complaint against celebrity blogger Musal Khawula.
Read: How a school assault case has lifted the lid on bullying
In Cape Town, eight Milnerton High School pupils appeared in court on Thursday for assaulting a Grade 10 learner in a brutal attack captured on video. Six learners were granted bail of R2,000 each, while two minors were released with a warning.
The court imposed strict conditions: the accused are barred from contacting the victim, must avoid school premises, and will write exams at a separate venue. The case has been postponed to 20 January 2026.
The Western Cape Education Department confirmed the school is conducting its own investigation, with additional videos surfacing that may implicate more learners.
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