National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has broken his silence amid a deepening crisis within the South African Police Service (SAPS), announcing a leadership overhaul in crime intelligence and pledging resolute action to restore public trust and organisational unity.
Addressing the media on Tuesday, Masemola confirmed the arrest of Crime Intelligence Divisional Commissioner Lieutenant General Khumalo and six other senior officers on 26 June. He revealed that all seven have since been reassigned within SAPS pending the outcome of internal disciplinary proceedings, in accordance with SAPS’s 2016 regulations.
“This is a pivotal moment,” Masemola said. “We will be judged by our resolve, our adherence to the law, and our unwavering commitment to service.”
Major General Makgato Appointed as Acting Crime Intelligence Head
In a critical announcement, Masemola introduced Major General Solomon Makgato as the acting head of Crime Intelligence. Makgato, the current head of the Hawks in the Western Cape, brings 36 years of experience in intelligence and investigations. He holds a BTech in Policing and a National Diploma in Police Administration.
“We have full confidence in Major General Makgato,” Masemola stated. “His leadership will enhance efficiency and maintain stability in crime intelligence.”
Masemola affirmed the central role of crime intelligence in SAPS strategy, emphasising its importance in tackling organised crime and allocating resources effectively.
Mkhwanazi’s Briefing “Within His Prerogative,” But Situation “Unprecedented”
Masemola also addressed the political firestorm ignited by KwaZulu-Natal Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s explosive briefing earlier this week. Mkhwanazi alleged widespread political interference in high-profile investigations, including the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team and the illegal seizure of 121 active dockets.
When asked if he sanctioned the briefing, Masemola said Mkhwanazi had indicated his intention to update the public on the task team’s work. “Provincial commissioners have the prerogative to brief the media,” he said. However, Masemola admitted the current state of affairs is “unprecedented and concerning” and called for unity over division.
Masemola declined to confirm whether the Minister of Police directed the shutdown of the task team or was under investigation for interference. “These matters are subject to investigation. Let the space be given for proper processes to unfold,” he said.
He added that, contrary to Mkhwanazi’s suggestion, he had not signed any letter disbanding the unit. “I have not authorised any closure of the task team,” he stated.
Political Killings Task Team Status in Limbo
Masemola would not clarify the status of the task team beyond confirming that he had not issued an order to terminate it. However, he acknowledged that following the arrest of suspect Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, the reasons for interference with the team’s work had become apparent.
Pressed about the alleged removal of case dockets to SAPS headquarters, he avoided definitive answers and repeated that the matter should be left to investigators.
When asked whether he had engaged Mkhwanazi since the briefing, Masemola indicated that action would only be taken after discussions with the President, who is expected to return shortly. “Let’s engage with the President and then take matters forward,” he said.
Threats Against Mkhwanazi and Security Measures
In a striking admission, Masemola confirmed that Mkhwanazi has received threats to his life and that security has been “beefed up” accordingly. “There will be no persecution from my side,” he assured. “No SAPS member will be punished for doing their job.”
Public Trust in the Balance
Masemola closed the briefing with a plea for unity, stating “this is a time not to divide, but to stand together and fight crime together.”
His remarks come as Parliament, civil society and political parties continue to press for an independent investigation into the systemic failures within SAPS leadership. Portfolio Committee Chairperson Ian Cameron previously warned that “criminal syndicates are rejoicing” as SAPS leadership turns on itself.
As internal investigations begin and the President prepares to meet with police leadership, the SAPS faces a credibility crisis that could reshape its future.
This remains a developing story.
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