By Marcus Moloko
Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) Chief Yolande Faro is in the hot seat at the Madlanga Commission to address allegations of corruption, irregular tender practices, and lapses in security clearances within the department.
Faro expressed shock at allegations of funds being siphoned from TMPD operations.
She told the commission that corruption would not be tolerated under her leadership and pledged that criminal cases would be opened against guilty officials.
The commission has been investigating claims that operational budgets were diverted into unauthorised accounts, undermining service delivery and public trust.
One of the most significant developments was Faro’s confirmation that she had processed the suspension of Deputy Chief Umashi Dhlamini. Dhlamini was implicated in tender irregularities, with evidence presented to the commission suggesting contracts were awarded without proper oversight.
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The allegations against Dhlamini include manipulation of procurement processes to favour specific contractors, failure to disclose conflicts of interest in tender awards, and the bypassing of oversight mechanisms, thereby enabling irregular expenditure.
Faro testified that she personally holds top-secret clearance from the State Security Agency (SSA). However, she admitted that not all deputy chiefs had the required clearances, raising concerns about access to sensitive intelligence and procurement processes.
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She called for compulsory clearance requirements for all senior officials, saying that lapses in vetting posed risks to departmental integrity and national security.
Faro assumed leadership of the TMPD on 1 October 2023, following restructuring efforts aimed at restoring credibility.
