Commissioner Julius Mkhwanazi, a suspended Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) officer who served as Deputy Chief of Police Operations and Specialised Services and was often appointed Acting Chief of Police, testified that he facilitated the registration of a private individual’s vehicles as official municipal vehicles equipped with blue lights. He reported these irregularities to his superiors but said he was suspended when the municipality did not want him to pursue an investigation against a junior colleague. Chief Mapiyeye, the EMPD Chief, stated that Mkhwanazi disregarded his authority with the support of the City Manager and conducted recruitments and promotions during acting appointments.

Mr. Shadrack Sibiya, a Lieutenant General in the South African Police Service, served as the National Head of the Directorate of Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI/ Hawks) before becoming Deputy National Commissioner: Crime Detection. Testimony described him as a signatory and recommender in the contract process for a team linked to the Matlala/SAPS Health Risk Management/Medicare 24 scheme. He was questioned about instructing subordinates to transfer dockets and control investigations, as well as about a threat assessment he requested regarding his members. Sibiya had faced a disciplinary case related to the rendition of Zimbabweans, after which he was assigned head of organised crime, and he took up a senior SAPS position effective 1 July 2022.

Advocate Andrea Johnson served as the Investigating Director of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), where she oversaw matters including the criminal prosecution of the Crime Intelligence Seven and the EMPD drug enforcement and criminal-records vetting case. During the commission, her testimony indicated that some messages from a phone were tampered with. She stated that she had been relieved of her responsibilities in that particular matter, though questions were raised about whether she stepped aside voluntarily or was removed. Johnson was educated in KwaZulu-Natal, studied at the University of Durban Westville, completed a diploma in criminal justice and forensic auditing part-time at the University of Johannesburg, and attended a prosecutor course in 1997.

Major-General Senona is a senior South African Police Service officer whose dealings with Mr Matlala became a focus of the commission’s inquiry into SAPS health procurement and intelligence matters. Testimony linked his association with Matlala to a commercial venture between Matlala and Senona’s son, Thato. Senona was described as having assisted Matlala with invoice payments for Medicare 24 Tshwane and having forwarded a ministerial letter and documents concerning a complaint against a private security company and SAPS officers to him. The purpose of sharing that information remained unclear. Senona raised objections to some documents provided by the commission, but the chairperson recorded that he had received everything required. He was directed to submit a sworn statement by January 2026 and to testify on 27 January 2026. His legal representative later indicated he had only made arrangements to appear that day and would need special leave to continue the following day, though the chairperson noted he could have planned accordingly.

Mr Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala was identified in commission testimony as a prominent figure in a Gauteng cartel under investigation, described as a direct target of the Organised Crime Unit. Witnesses testified that he was appointed as a Health Risk Manager for the SAPS, held a contract with the police service, and allegedly used his law enforcement connections to register personal vehicles as municipal property. He was also found with a cellphone while in correctional facilities. Testimony linked him to a contract cancellation involving a Minister, communications with business partner Mike Van Wyk, and the attempted murder of a former girlfriend. He was further portrayed as a leader of the Big Five organised crime syndicate.

Mr Mnisi was a senior figure in the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) whose authority over tender recommendations and budget allocations came under scrutiny during the inquiry. Testimony described him as the official with the power to make recommendations to the City Manager regarding a specific tender, and he was alleged to have decided alongside the Deputy Head of TMPD that they would win that tender. He faced questions about seeking advice on how to handle the Hawks, including sending a draft letter for review, and about his communications indicating he was “managing” a person named Lukukela. His role in appointing TMPD officials to the Bid Adjudication Committee was also raised.

Brown Mogotsi was identified in commission testimony as a close associate of Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, with witnesses describing him as having deep knowledge of police operations, including retirement dates and internal meeting details. He was alleged to have forwarded a ministerial letter disbanding a police team to another individual and to have publicly claimed involvement in the Thabo Bester operation repatriation. Testimony examined his phone contacts and short-duration calls, suggesting he acted as an intermediary passing sensitive information from within police or ministerial circles. His relationship to the Minister and his apparent access to confidential police matters were central to the inquiry's focus on external influence over SAPS.

Fadiel Adams is a South African Member of Parliament who appeared in testimony before the Madlanga Commission primarily as a complainant and a lawmaker. During the proceedings, he was described as having opened criminal cases in Cape Town and Johannesburg against senior police officials, including allegations about misuse of task-team funds and nepotism. However, testimony also raised concerns about his handling of classified Crime Intelligence information, with witnesses alleging he accessed it without authorisation, used it recklessly, and took it outside Parliament into the public domain. It was further stated that Adams did not make himself available for interviews by investigators looking into his own complaints, and that his dockets were eventually closed.

Advocate Ramsamy is a prosecutor attached to the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) within the National Prosecuting Authority. Admitted as an attorney of the High Court of South Africa in June 2013, she began her career as an aspirant prosecutor in Pietermaritzburg in 2015, later working in the Pinetown cluster from 2016 to 2020 before being appointed a state advocate in March 2023. Before the Commission, her role centred on a Section 28(13) application and the handling of documents, with testimony describing her engagements with investigators and other officials. She faced questions about the provenance of certain documents, which she and an investigator said they could not trace, and her intention to make disclosures under protected disclosure protection.

Lt-Col (now Col) Gavin Jacob was a provincial officer in the South African Police Service whose role in the handling of drug exhibits came under scrutiny during the commission. Testimony placed him as a recipient of directives from provincial structures and indicated he regularly liaised with the provincial commander to facilitate the processing of exhibits by the Forensic Science Laboratory. He was described as phoning a warrant officer to inform him that an investigation had been finalised and to issue a verbal warning. He also faced questions about intelligence he allegedly received prior to a drug shipment, and about enquiries he made to crime scene analysts regarding the analysis of specific cases.

Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu faced scrutiny at the commission over his involvement in police operations and alleged political interference. Testimony described him, as a party deployee, questioning station commanders about a case against an election competitor and allegedly seeking to ensure the competitor’s arrest before local polls. He was also criticised for his handling of the Political Killings Task Team’s disbandment, with police leadership stating he made a determination without receiving a comprehensive briefing, bypassing operational command. This intervention, they argued, blurred the line between policy and operations, risking confusion and eroding discipline within sensitive investigations. Mchunu denied certain allegations, including a connection to Brown Mogotsi.

Adv Mahlape Sello SC is a Senior Counsel who appeared before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry as a legal representative. During proceedings, he questioned witnesses on a range of matters, including their interpretation of internal referral processes such as IDAC, the declassification of documents, and the basis for the Minister’s decision to disband a task team. His questioning also focused on allegations against various arms of government and functionaries, with particular attention to how Parliamentarians should handle sensitive information and the apparent breadth of concerns beyond specific named individuals.

Deputy Commissioner Umashi Dlamini (also spelled Dhlamini) served as Deputy Chief of the Tshwane Municipal Police Department. During the commission, testimony described him as involved in internal communications about tender processing, including messages about increasing target values and addressing compliance issues. He was questioned about the extent of his assistance in preparing tender documents and his coordination with individuals referred to as “uBaba” (the late Mr Msibi) and “Mfowethu.” An email from Dlamini listing the allocation of ad hoc work for specific months also featured in the proceedings, with one recipient noting that a question about it had not been answered. His role in processing invoices and ensuring checks before submission to the CFO was also discussed.

Dr Imogen Mashazi served as the city manager of Ekurhuleni and, in that capacity, was described as the accounting officer for the EMPD. Testimony before the commission placed her at the centre of the disciplinary process involving Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi, alleging that she supported him and repeatedly interfered in proceedings. She was accused of instructing Chief Mapiyeye to withdraw charges against Mkhwanazi, claiming the case was being pushed by Mapiyeye and Commissioner Spies out of bias. During a meeting, she challenged Mapiyeye’s evidence and then abruptly suspended him, later placing him on special leave. Witnesses also recalled her interjecting in discussions and directing the conversation at the commission.

Advocate Sesi Baloyi, SC, served as a commissioner on the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, where she questioned witnesses on issues related to the Tembisa Hospital extraction scheme and the disciplinary process of EMPD’s Julius Mkhwanazi. She frequently pressed for clarification on exhibits and witness testimony, noting instances where some exhibits were shown and others withheld. Baloyi also raised queries about the appointment of a provincial commissioner, references to “dirty work” in that context, and the handling of a bail transcript that a judge had raised as a concern. Her questioning sought to ensure that WhatsApp messages, voice notes, and schedules were properly identified for the record.

Chief Samuel Mashaba is a senior officer within the South African Police Service, identified in the commission’s testimony as a commissioned officer and custodian of information in the Crime Intelligence Secret Services Account. He was involved in an operation concerning a truck suspected of transporting drugs from Durban to Alberton. Testimony described him calling for assistance from colleagues, including Warrant Officer Magane, and requesting that informant Tumelo Nku relay details. He was also said to have used a traffic department radio or the 10111 centre for support. The operation was described as successful, though the commission heard that misunderstandings arose between Mashaba and other Crime Intelligence members.

Adv Chaskalson SC is a senior counsel who appeared before the Madlanga Commission, where he conducted witness examinations and managed procedural aspects of the inquiry. During proceedings, he questioned a witness about the forensic science laboratory administrative system and the IBIS ballistic imaging system, probing how serial number retrieval and image analysis were documented. He also made scheduling proposals, noting that his team would file written argument by a specified date, and acknowledged a date error in a submission. His submissions during testimony focused on the operational challenges facing IBIS resources, particularly backlogs that limited the system’s effectiveness in certain provinces.

Tumelo Nku was identified in testimony as an informer for Chief Traffic Mashaba, providing intelligence on illegal cigarettes and other matters linked to the Crime Intelligence Secret Services Account. Described as acting in his private capacity, he was present at a scene where fellow officers warned him he was endangering his own life. Witnesses noted he remained in his car until approached by a Flying Squad member. Testimony also highlighted his communications about drugs, shipments, and harbour piers, with record interactions dating back to 2019. He introduced information to General Mashaba and described himself as an informer who supplied intelligence to a certain general.

Advocate Kemi Behari is a legal practitioner who became involved in the disciplinary process of Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD). Testimony described him as appointing a forensic firm to investigate the matter and ultimately concluding there was no case for a disciplinary hearing. He faced questions about his engagement with the department and his knowledge of a payment reversal before ruling that senior brigadiers should receive overtime. Behari was also accused by the EMPD's attorneys of leaking Mkhwanazi’s charge sheet. His involvement began only after June 21st, according to some accounts.

Lt Gen Samuel Dumisani Khumalo is a senior South African Police Service officer who, according to testimony, held a national-level post before being deployed to KwaZulu-Natal as an acting role. He was assigned to the Political Killings Task Team, taking over leadership of the team in the province from Maj Gen Ramatswele, and was promoted through the ranks during the team's operation before eventually becoming Divisional Commissioner of Crime Intelligence in Pretoria—a role in which he retained oversight of the task team. The commission heard that as head of Crime Intelligence, he initiated threat assessments, registered a parallel investigation under Counter Intelligence, and sought a specialised team from KZN to be seconded to his Gauteng unit, citing the need to protect investigators.

Sehlahle Fannie Masemola is the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, a role that testimony described as giving him overall control and management of the organisation. Before assuming that position, he served as Deputy National Commissioner responsible for policing, where he was involved in approving operational approaches in KwaZulu-Natal. His authority includes signing off on high-level police operations, and testimony indicated that the National Commissioner provisionally approved the strategy for the Political Killings Task Team and its continued work on a reduced scale. Questions were raised about his awareness of a specific letter, as he was reported to be on leave at the time.

Advocate Peter Serunye is a Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions who became involved in the Mokwele and Lushaba cases on 8 August 2025. According to testimony, he accompanied prosecutors to court to engage with the office on challenges that arose. Witness statements describe him as having sent emails and memoranda that aligned with concerns about how the Mokwele matter was being conducted, and he was approached directly by colleagues Advocate Joyce Hlatshwayo and others who shared those concerns. The record notes that Serunye later requested to be removed from the Mokwele and Lushaba cases, though the circumstances surrounding that request are not detailed in the testimony.

Ms Linda Gxasheka, Head of Human Resources for the department, was described by Chief Mapiyeye as having assisted with initiating the recruitment process, though he emphasised she had no role in extending a deputy chief of police’s contract. Testimony later alleged she directly challenged Mapiyeye’s decision by deploying Brigadier Mkhwanazi back to his substantive post, and Commissioner Revo Spies asserted she lacked authority to interfere in municipal police matters. She also faced questions about expressing discomfort over media coverage linking an individual named Mr Matlala to a dangerous reputation, and about raising security and risk-assessment concerns during discussions around disciplining a brigadier, without questioning the allegations themselves.

Lt Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is a senior South African Police Service officer who served as Acting Provincial Commissioner in KwaZulu-Natal in 2018, around the time the President announced an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC). His testimony before the Madlanga Commission focused on his oversight of a special operational approach and investigation strategy developed to address problems in the province, including a prosecution strategy. Mkhwanazi stated that as head of the province he revised the relevant plan, kept the National Commissioner informed of the strategy, and that a submission with budget implications for the task team was made by him. He remained responsible for the Political Task Team’s work even after moving to head office in 2019.

Deputy Commissioner Revo Spies served in the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD), primarily overseeing Auxiliary Support Services, including the repository of documents and records such as memoranda of understanding with other entities. He also acted as Acting Chief of Police during Commissioner Mapiyeye’s leave and as caretaker for Internal Affairs. Before the commission, Spies was expected to provide details on several criminal cases and was questioned about his knowledge of charges laid against perpetrators. His testimony addressed the misuse of blue lights and EMPD resources, agreeing that the use and sale of blue-light vehicles should be restricted to law enforcement only.

Suliman Carim was a participant in matters before the State Capture Inquiry, linked to a loan chain involving Carrim, Mogotsi, and Matlala as well as ANC event payments. During proceedings, his legal representatives argued that Carim faced death threats and surveillance, and that he distrusted the Commission’s staff, fearing his submissions would be disclosed publicly. His lawyers contended that this lack of trust arose from his treatment by the Commission and described repeated attempts to have his concerns addressed urgently. Carim also waived his right to a formal hearing on the matter. The Chairperson noted there was no basis for Carim to believe his statement would not be kept confidential.

Director Tshukudu Malatji served as the Director for Security and Guarding Services for the City of Tshwane, a role that placed him in charge of deploying and monitoring security companies as well as overseeing the invoicing process linked to their payments. A former member of the South African Police Service, Malatji was described as an experienced senior manager who effectively ran his unit day-to-day. Testimony indicated that he was responsible for signing off on work completion and was the designated manager for the TMPD 2 security contract from 2016–17, alongside Mr Nava Pillay. However, Commissioner Spies testified that Malatji had been suspended on 4 July, and that he had asserted his higher rank as a commissioned officer in disputes over authority.

Brigadier Matjeng served as Section Head of Quality Management within SAPS's Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management component, a role he took up in March 2024. His responsibilities included managing medical surveillance and biological monitoring programs for employees exposed to workplace hazards. Testifying before the commission, he stated that he became aware of the health risk manager contract only when the previous one, held by Metropolitan, was ending. He disclosed to his supervisor that he knew Mr Matlala and asked whether he should recuse himself from overseeing the medical surveillance program. Matjeng said he was not involved in any bid committees for the contract, and that his WhatsApp exchanges with Matlala concerned implementation challenges.

Jabulani Isaac Mapiyeye is a Deputy Chief of Police Support and Auxiliary in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD), having served in the traffic fraternity since 1983 and being promoted to his current role in September 2013. His testimony before the commission covered his involvement in the disciplinary process of Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi and his concerns about the handling of a memorandum of understanding with CAT Security Services, which he said had not been approved by his office. He also faced questions about EMPD members’ conduct during the State of the City Address, testifying that he was initially unaware that some individuals present were SAPS members.

Adv Hassim SC is a Senior Counsel who appeared before the South African Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, where he served as a legal representative involved in leading evidence and examining witnesses. His role brought him to address procedural and interpretive matters, including the Commission’s terms of reference around cartels versus syndicates, the focus of certain testimony on the “Big Five,” and the logistical challenges of preparing extensive evidence. He raised concerns about the public projection of unredacted annexures and confidential names from witness statements, requesting that sensitive material not be displayed. He also questioned witnesses on operational topics such as the turnaround times for police units, and sought adjournments to set up remote witness links.

Advocate Sandile Khumalo SC served as a commissioner on the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, where he actively questioned witnesses on matters relating to EMPD drug enforcement and criminal-records vetting. His inquiries often focused on operational details, including the interaction between police teams and the Hawks during arrests, the handling of case dockets by the Cold Case Unit, and the location of surveillance cameras. Commissioner Khumalo also directed witnesses to specific passages in statements and bail bundles, seeking clarification or confirmation of prior testimony. His role was that of a probing commissioner, pressing for evidentiary links and procedural clarity.

Brigadier Nkhwashu is a veteran South African Police Service officer who enlisted in July 1987 and served in Soweto’s Public Order Policing Unit before moving to the Vehicle Theft Unit and later the Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit in Brixton. By June 2022, he was Deputy District Commissioner at City Bank District and had acted as District Commissioner when needed. During the commission, he faced questions about an incident in December 2024, when he was alleged to have attempted to retrieve criminal dockets related to the case of Mr Katiso Molefe, acting on a direct instruction from the Provincial Commissioner. Testimony described that he warned colleagues of disciplinary action if they failed to hand over the dockets, and that the urgency of the request raised suspicions. Lieutenant General Sibiya stated he knew of no interest by Nkhwashu in any case at national level.

Major General Feroz Khan serves as Component Head of Operational Intelligence Support within Crime Intelligence, having been promoted from Colonel to Major General within the unit, and was also appointed acting Component Head of Counter and Security Intelligence. He faced a disciplinary hearing related to an operation with the DPCI in which individuals were found in possession of drugs, and testimony described a recording suggesting a plot to dismiss him; he was ultimately acquitted. Khan also successfully challenged the expeditious handling of his matters in court. His name surfaced in connection with alleged interference in policing operations, including an Evaton drug operation, and he was identified as a contact person in conversations regarding an EFF celebration.

Warrant Officer Marumo Joseph Magane, a South African Police Service officer, described his role to the commission as focused on crime analysis and prevention. His duties, he testified, included visiting high-crime hotspots, interviewing complainants and victims to supplement their statements, and compiling periodic crime statistics reports. He also noted that his responsibilities did not preclude involvement in other operations, and that he would act if he witnessed a crime while on patrol. Testimony from Colonel Francois Steyn indicated that Magane joined colleagues at the Scania premises in Aeroton and later at Yellow Jersey, where a truck was stopped. The chairperson characterised such crime-scene involvement as incidental.

Lieutenant-Colonel Nkoana Joseph Sebola, a member of the Hawks (DPCI), served as an investigating officer in a high-profile matter before the commission. His testimony and the accounts of others describe him as deeply involved in the handling of suspects and physical evidence at a scene, where he was reportedly responsible for securing exhibits and coordinating with attending officers. He faced questions about his actions on the evening of an incident, including his role in directing a black Nissan bakkie loaded with sports bags and his communication with fellow officers. Sebola also acknowledged sending an implementation plan and receiving instructions by note, while his command over certain aspects of the investigation and his familiarity with Crime Intelligence personnel were queried during proceedings.

Matthew Sesoko is the Chief Operating Officer of IDAC, the organisation at the centre of the inquiry's scrutiny. His role in the company's document approval process drew particular attention, with testimony describing his signature appearing on a key page of a document. However, the record also indicates that his authority in this regard had been curtailed, with evidence suggesting he had been made redundant with respect to signing or approving documents. The practical arrangements around these functions were explained as stemming from the organisation's operational needs, though the precise circumstances of his diminished signing role were not fully clarified in the proceedings.

Warrant Officer Boy Steve Phakula of the SAPS National Intervention Unit testified about his role at a crime scene involving drugs and suspects including Messrs Mashaba and Ndou. He stated that after contacting his superior, Commander Sephungu, he received permission to assist and proceeded to Alberton SAPS. Phakula said the scene became overcrowded with police officers, disturbing his work, and he advised a colleague to obtain video footage. He claimed that others tried to take control of the scene by intimidation or threat of arrest. Phakula also described being visited in prison by individuals he had not requested to see, and noted discrepancies in forensic exhibit numbers.

Senior Investigator Brian Padayachee was described in testimony as heading an investigation into members of the Crime Intelligence division. Appearing before the commission, he stated that he could not speak to the management-level authorization for the probe. He faced extensive questioning about affidavits and document bundles, including discrepancies in the completeness of Annexure MK15—of which he received only a few pages, while the original ran to more than twenty. He explained that investigators do not dictate charges to prosecutors, and he acknowledged difficulty hearing certain discussions during the proceedings.

Warrant Officer Mpangase is a detective with the Organised Crime unit who was implicated in testimony before the commission regarding the handling of cocaine exhibits and the Crime Intelligence Secret Services Account. He was described as an investigating officer in the matter, introduced himself as such to colleagues, and was given access to the vault containing exhibits by Major General Senona. Testimony noted that Mpangase collected samples of the exhibits on 23 June 2021 on instruction, but only entered them into the official register the following day. Questions were raised about the documentation of his movements and whether proper procedures were followed, with some characterisation that he could not independently determine whether the substance was cocaine.

Captain Barry James Kruger, a South African Police Service officer, appeared as a witness before the Madlanga Commission, where testimony focused on his role in operational communications and coordination. Described as having a crew including Constable De Gouveia, he was involved in attending an address on a Friday afternoon but reportedly indicated he could not go there immediately due to heavy traffic and a planned operation outside Gauteng. His handling of WhatsApp communications drew scrutiny: allegations were raised that he had been copying and pasting messages, and he faced questions about his participation in a WhatsApp group and whether he added extra members to an operation without informing his superiors. He submitted a witness statement with annexures marked BK 1 to 5.

Warrant Officer Karl Sander is attached to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (DPCI), Serious Organised Crime Investigation, based in Durban. In his testimony, he outlined a career spanning over two decades, beginning around 2000 with training narcotics units, Crime Intelligence, and Organised Crime. He described completing specialised courses on clandestine laboratories and chemical monitoring through US agencies such as the DEA and NCIS, as well as a 2024 contribution to developing SAPS’s Specialized Narcotics Investigation Learning Program. Sander stated that he was moved back to Economic Protected Resources in August of the previous year and named Brigadier Nyuswa, General Senona, and Colonel Willie Louw among his former commanders.

Commissioner Yolande Faro has served as the Chief of Police for the Tshwane Metropolitan Police Department since 1 October 2023, having previously acted in the same capacity in Cape Town from February 2016. Testimony before the commission described her responding to an email regarding ad hoc services and subsequently requesting a report and new process from a subordinate. Faro also holds the title of Gauteng Province Community Safety Champion of Integration and possesses a top secret security clearance. Her responsibilities include overseeing recruitment, appointment, and promotion within the TMPD, setting annual priorities and objectives, and maintaining an impartial and accountable service, with accountability to the City Manager as per the applicable legislation.

Brigadier Campbell Nyuswa served as the Provincial Commander for Serious Organised Crime within KZN DPCI, based in Durban. Testimony described him as being aware of security vulnerabilities at the DPCI Port Shepstone office, including past break-ins, and of having indicated that those premises could be used for exhibit storage. Witnesses stated that Nyuswa directed investigations and ordered that exhibit analysis be expedited. Colonel Prinsloo testified that Nyuswa later left KZN after a promotion to Klerksdorp in North West.

Adv Premhid is an advocate who appeared before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry representing a client. His testimony focused on procedural matters, including being placed in a holding cell while awaiting to address the Commission and reaching agreements with opposing counsel on speaking order and filing deadlines. He engaged in legal argument about confidentiality regimes, citing rules of the Commission and case law such as *Brydon* and *Helen Suzman Foundation*. He expressed sympathy for the Commission's scheduling difficulties and indicated that accommodations could be made to protect fair trial rights of other witnesses. The Chairperson noted that Premhid had offered to comply with a filing directive, suggesting a cooperative posture.

Lt Gen Senthumule served as Divisional Commissioner responsible for crime detection, later specified as Detectives and Forensics. She was centrally involved in efforts to transfer certain dockets from the Inspectorate to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IDAC). Testimony described her as the officer who contacted General Jacob to request the dockets’ release and who pressed General Khumalo to hand them over, repeatedly engaging with her between early February and March 2025. Senthumule reportedly told Khumalo that the instruction to comply was her own burden, not Khumalo’s, and that Khumalo merely needed to surrender the dockets for compliance to be seen. Her role in facilitating the transfer was repeatedly referenced by senior officers, though the full context of the challenges requiring her intervention remained subject to further testimony.

Mansha Raphesu is an investigator whose work and recollections came under scrutiny during the commission’s proceedings, particularly regarding his handling of a section 27 affidavit and related documentation. Testimony described him as someone who would have consulted with complainants, prepared materials in advance of meetings, and shared an office with fellow investigators. He faced questions about the timing and basis of a premature action, with concerns raised over whether a witness would confirm receiving certain information. His role in the investigative process, including his familiarity with A1 affidavits in dockets, was central to discussions about how evidence was gathered and presented.

Colonel Sibiya, a police officer with the South African Police Service, testified before the Madlanga Commission about his involvement in events surrounding June 2021. At the time, he was a lieutenant colonel temporarily transferred from Financial Investigation Organized Crime as part of a duty arrangement. Sibiya described his role in the handling of exhibits on 22 and 23 June 2021 as limited and restricted to what he was instructed to do, emphasising that large-scale drug investigations were not his area of specialisation. He denied any allegations not specifically addressed in his testimony, and the record includes questions about his participation alongside other officers at locations including Isipingo and Port Shepstone.

Captain Makgotloe was a police officer whose role in handling evidence and crime scene procedures came under scrutiny during the Madlanga Commission. Testimony described him as the person who confirmed that investigators could enter a scene, and he was involved in statement-taking and the seizure of a workstation. He faced questions about ballistic conclusions linking bullets to a specific firearm, as well as about his communications with detectives regarding linkages between seized weapons and other crimes. The commission also heard that he attempted to retrieve a firearm’s serial number, and he was questioned about discrepancies he himself had highlighted in official reports. Allegations were raised that information about linkages may have come from individuals with connections to organised crime networks, though this remained unproven.

Adv Lee Segeels-Ncube SC is a senior counsel who appeared as a legal representative before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. His role involved examining witnesses, managing procedural matters such as adjournments and document bundles, and leading evidence on specific topics, including alleged interference by the Hawks in a takedown operation. He was responsible for introducing witnesses like Witness A, Brigadier Mokoena, and Mr George Raftopoulos, and for guiding them through their statements and exhibits, including WhatsApp messages and video footage. His questioning also explored concerns raised in meetings about dual roles held by certain individuals.

Paul O'Sullivan, a former police officer dismissed by then-Commissioner Jackie Selebi, appeared before the commission to testify about his decades-long involvement in crime-fighting as a private citizen. He described receiving an award from Scotland Yard in 1978 and later infiltrating a drug cartel to enable a seizure. He runs Forensics for Justice, an organisation sustained by his own business activities. O'Sullivan had previously complained about an appointment in Crime Intelligence's Human Resources division, and faced questions after being implicated by a witness in allegations of high treason and espionage. His testimony covered a range of standalone topics, which he presented with supporting documents.

Mr Magagula is an Assistant Director of Investigation at the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), stationed in Marshalltown, Johannesburg. Testimony before the commission described him as the IPID investigator who reported in person to the City of Ekurhuleni’s City Manager that he was driving an investigation into Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi of the EMPD. He was alleged to have held numerous sideline meetings with Mkhwanazi at the Boksburg EMPD precinct and to have used information from a concluded matter in an attempt to stifle bail proceedings against certain officers. Magagula denied accusations that he deliberately undermined or delayed any investigation implicating Mkhwanazi, asserting that the claims were factually incorrect.

Lieutenant-Colonel Justice Jabulani Duma is a Crime Intelligence officer attached to the Multi-Dimensional Organised Crime unit in Durban. Testimony described him as the supervisor of a handler, Warrant Officer Mabuza, and as the senior officer who knew what a co-handler was doing. He was also requested by a provincial office to include a specific colonel in an operation. Duma gave evidence partly in camera, detailing his career in uniformed policing, Border Security, and intelligence collection. He stated that his role involved gathering intelligence and supplying it to relevant SAPS units, and that he interacted with DPCI commanders for operational purposes.

Mr Katiso Molefe was an accused whose bail proceedings drew scrutiny during the commission’s inquiry into political killings and witness intimidation. Testimony described him as the subject of a complaint about a suspicious vehicle parked near a witness’s home, while evidence linked him to a phone call with an associate and raised questions about his travel using fake documents. The judge who granted his bail imposed strict conditions, including a ban on contacting state witnesses, and the chairperson noted the basis for inferring that Mr Molefe could have ordered a hit. He also faced questioning about a prior drug conviction and the use of forged travel papers.

Major-General Richard Shibiri served as head of SAPS Organised Crime before his dismissal. Testimony at the commission described him as a senior officer who chaired meetings within the Hawks. He faced questions about his relationship with a figure named Mswazi, described as a very dangerous person to whom certain suspects were connected. Shibiri’s communications with another officer, particularly his inquiry about the whereabouts of an individual named Matlala, drew scrutiny; some testimony suggested he appeared sympathetic to Matlala’s situation rather than concerned for SAPS. He also recommended that a threat and risk assessment be conducted for his own personal safety.

Chief Superintendent Kelebogile Thepa is a senior female officer in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD), having previously served as its spokesperson and head of media and public relations. Her career within the EMPD included postings at Tembisa Precinct, the Freeway Unit, and the Training Academy in KwaThema as an instructor, before she became a shift commander at the Winnie Mandela Precinct. She was later redeployed as precinct commander at OR Tambo International Airport. During the commission’s proceedings, testimony indicated that Thepa had received information suggesting three vehicles on a specific list were registered with the EMPD, and that she had emailed that she would forward video clips relating to a particular incident.

Advocate Hartley Ngoato appeared as legal representative for a client at the Commission, where he argued for a postponement to review over 4,800 pages of documentation. He stated that some documents had been received as early as November 2025 and that part of the record had already been addressed in his client’s statements, but a substantial portion arrived only days before proceedings, leaving insufficient time for consultation. The Chairperson engaged him on the feasibility of proceeding with undisputed materials first, while Ngoato maintained that the volume and need to consider corroborative evidence warranted a delay to protect his client’s rights.

Adv Thabang Pooe served as a legal officer or commissioner during the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, responsible for administering oaths to witnesses and guiding evidentiary proceedings. She swore to faithfully relay testimony into the record, and on multiple occasions questioned witnesses to confirm the accuracy of explanations regarding call data records, phone tracking information, and the movements of individuals under scrutiny. Pooe referenced statements by General Khumalo, Captain Kruger, and Brigadier Mokoena, and noted that Major-General Shibiri had informed a witness about a group of five individuals with mining interests in the North West Province. Her role involved ensuring that witness confirmations matched documented evidence.

Colonel Francois Steyn is a senior South African Police Service officer with extensive experience in narcotics enforcement, vehicle theft investigation, and organised crime. His career includes postings at the Hillbrow Vehicle Theft Unit, the Pretoria Organised Crime Unit, and the Priority Violent Crime Unit, where he served as Team Leader. He has held ranks equivalent to Lieutenant Colonel and Colonel. Steyn also led the SANEB Team within the DPCI Gauteng and managed undercover investigations into drug syndicates, as well as Kidnapping for Ransom cases. As of 2025, he is the Unit Commander of the West Rand Serious Organised Crime Unit.

Nomsa Puriti Masuku, a former SAPS officer, testified at the Madlanga Commission in connection with the Tembisa Hospital extraction scheme and the Hillbrow theft of precious stones. She described her career, starting at the Serious and Violent Crime Unit in Alexandra, then moving to the Tembisa cluster from 2010 to 2013, and later to the SAPS Provincial Office handling serial rapist matters. She stated that she cracked a serial rape case involving Albert Justice M, with cases spanning 2004 to 2012. Her qualifications include a National Diploma in Policing from Tshwane University of Technology and certificates in cybercrime investigation from the University of Pretoria. She also received a commendation from the Minister of Police for her dedication.

Major General Anthony Gopaul is the Acting District Commissioner of iLembe, appointed to the rank in 2022. His career in the South African Police Service began in 1990 with lower-ranking operational work at various stations, moving into national components from 2001. He served in Protection and Security Services, handling VIP protection, and from 2007 provided senior management leadership in border security at the Brigadier level. Gopaul has pursued extensive academic qualifications, including an Executive Development Management Programme, a Bachelors in Policing, and a Master in Technology of Forensic Investigation. He is currently at an advanced stage of a PhD in Criminal Justice focusing on cybercrime. In commission testimony, he faced questions about his interaction with the Minister regarding the murder of Councillor Mabhida.

Lieutenant-Colonel Prinsloo served as the acting unit commander of the DPCI SOCI (Hawks) in Port Shepstone, where he had been based since 2004 after joining the South African Narcotics and Alcohol Bureau (SANAB) in 1998. His testimony described arranging for an exhibit of cocaine to be stored in a walking safe, facing questions about his statement that the Port Shepstone office was asked to conduct after-hours visits and switch on the alarm system. He also mentioned that Brigadier Naicker had come to inspect certain SANNEB dockets and spoke to him about the cocaine in the safe. Prinsloo, who retired as a lieutenant colonel, completed basic policing training at Pretoria West Police College.

Major General ZM Mkhwanazi, a Provincial Commissioner in the South African Police Service, appeared before the Madlanga Commission, where his actions and testimony attracted scrutiny. He was described as having raised concerns with investigators and as being visibly frustrated by the arrest of Lieutenant General Khumalo, a matter he later discussed with the media. Mkhwanazi faced allegations that he offered to pause an attempted murder probe in exchange for information on a fellow officer, and that he was involved in collecting intelligence on a colleague. His testimony was characterised by another witness as an effort to shape a narrative adverse to that officer. Mkhwanazi also did not object to the disbandment of a task team and is subject to a civil claim relating to a docket.

Mike Van Wyk, associated with the private security firm CAT VIP, faced scrutiny over his professional background during commission testimony. Questions were raised about whether he truly held legal and medical qualifications, with commissioners observing that his credentials as a lawyer and doctor were unverified. Rumours suggested he once worked for the Boksburg Traffic Department in a paramedic role. Van Wyk discussed plans to establish his own security company and proposed assisting police with emergency medical response, including helicopter evacuations, while acknowledging the media publicity such operations would generate.

Major General Mary Cockey Motsepe is a senior female officer in the South African Police Service, currently serving as Component Head for Serious and Violent Crime Investigations in the Detective and Forensic Services Division. She joined the force as a student in 1991 and moved up through the ranks from investigator to colonel, later becoming a brigadier in 2012 and Gauteng Provincial Deputy Commissioner for Crime Detection in 2016. Her responsibilities include overseeing the investigation of murder, robbery, and political killings. During the commission, she testified about a phone call from General Senthumule on 27 March, in which she was asked whether the Political Killings Task Team had been disbanded, and about arranging to collect dockets from another general’s office.

Lieutenant General Teboho Mosikili served as Deputy National Commissioner for Policing and acted as National Commissioner from 31 December 2024 to 13 January 2025. During the commission, testimony described an incident at a Macro Store in which Mosikili was alleged to have attempted to purchase household appliances informally, subsequently opening a criminal case of theft against two individuals before later withdrawing the charges. The matter was referred to IPID for an enquiry into Mosikili’s conduct. Mosikili also faced questions regarding the handling of sensitive witness names and was involved in discussions about purchase orders, WhatsApp communications, and the allocation of work.

Sean Ian Edward Eugene Bolhuis is the Deputy Chief of Police for Training and Innovation at the Tshwane Metropolitan Police Department (TMPD). Testimony described him as having served as the caretaker of the Asset Protection and Security Services (APSS) division from July 2024 to February 2025, providing high-level management and oversight. He holds a top-secret security clearance valid until December 2026 and was recommended for his position by a panel of the Chief of Police and other senior city officials. During the commission, he faced questions about his oversight of APSS and his involvement in budget discussions for the division.

Warrant Officer Sabelo Nkosi, also known as Malume Nkosi, is a member of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) based in the TOMS section. Testifying before the Madlanga Commission, he described his role in coordinating operational pick-ups, including sending live locations to avoid delays. He testified that on the day in question, he felt they should not have been at the scene, noting that Constable De Gouveia had recognised a member from Special Task Force training, which he saw as confirmation they were not needed. Nkosi also stated that he reports through senior officers to Brigadier Mokoena, who had already called others, and faced questions about the unusual nature of a request from the brigadier.

Lieutenant General Dumisani Patrick Mbotho, a senior officer in the South African Police Service, testified before the Madlanga Commission about his role in relaying information during a police operation at a specific address. According to testimony, he forwarded details from General Lebeya to Colonel Mokoena, asking Mokoena to verify the members present and whether he had an operation in that vicinity. Mbotho discussed coordinating with specialised units, including the Priority Crime Specialised Investigation and Organised Crime teams. He faced questions about sending vehicle registration information and receiving updates from Mokoena that suggested the operation was legitimate. Mbotho stated he had assumed the vehicles observed were privately owned, and that he later received confirmation that everything was in order with police involvement. His testimony also noted he was attending a ceremony during these communications.

Captain Maxwell Thulani Wanda is a 30-year veteran of the South African Police Service, currently attached to the Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC) in Richards Bay. In testimony before the commission, he described himself as a qualified crime scene investigator, photographer, videographer, draftsman, and fingerprint expert, as well as a crime scene investigation manager. His role, he explained, involves ensuring the proper collection and preservation of evidence at crime scenes to maintain its integrity and admissibility. He also noted his involvement with the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT), where his expertise was called upon to process scenes requiring specialised forensic support.

Major-General Hendrik Frans Flynn is a senior officer in the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), also known as the Hawks. He holds a national diploma in police administration (1993) and a postgraduate diploma in business management (2023). His career includes serving as Cluster Coordinator for the Detective Service in Phokeng (2016), Provincial Commander for Serious Organised Crime Investigation in the North West, and since September 2024, Component Head for SOCI nationally. Before the commission, he discussed drug trafficking patterns, noting that cocaine and heroin are smuggled into South Africa for the local market or repackaged for onward shipment to Europe. He denied that his personnel were involved in any operation at Mr Molefe’s residence, and spoke about members of the public impersonating DPCI officers during raids.

Warrant Officer Setshedi is a forensic drug analyst in the Chemistry Investigation Unit of the Forensic Science Laboratory in KwaZulu-Natal, holding a BSc in Chemistry from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, with Chemistry and Physics as majors. Reporting to Lieutenant Colonel Songca, he testified about his involvement in a drug seizure in Simbithi alongside Colonel Jacob. His testimony described a conversation with Jacob in which Jacob raised questions about destroying exhibits before analysis—something Setshedi found unusual, given that the exhibits had not yet been analysed. He expressed particular concern over Jacob’s inquiry about having a single team member analyse the case, which he considered strange.

Chief Perumal, also referred to as Dylan Perumal, served as the chief investigator within the investigative unit scrutinised by the Madlanga Commission. His role placed him at the centre of the unit's daily operations, with witnesses describing him as the lead figure who guided taskings and activities and to whom investigators reported for direction. The commission's attention, however, focused heavily on his handling of a specific affidavit connected to Fadiel Adams, with questions raised about the circumstances under which it was taken—including the unusual combination of a commissioner's oath and a Cape Town stamp while the process allegedly occurred in Musina. Perumal was also identified as one of the individuals who compiled requirements for the National Commissioner's interview, and his potential involvement in broader investigative actions was noted.

Mr Sayed was identified during the commission as a private businessman and director of Carnilinx, the company at the centre of the illicit tobacco intelligence-capture scheme. Testimony described how he sought to secure contracts to supply the South African Police Service with masks, test kits, and other PPE, directly contacting General Khan for procurement information and internal SAPS details. Messages attributed to Sayed show him pressing for orders while demand was high and discussing fee-splitting arrangements, including a proposed one-third split. The commission heard that no proven criminal cases or charges had been brought against Sayed, though his role in attempting to gain access to SAPS mask orders drew scrutiny.

Cedrick Nkabinde served as the Chief of Staff in the office of Minister Senzo Mchunu, a role in which he reportedly directed a letter to IDAC on the Minister’s letterhead. During commission hearings, Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi described contacting Nkabinde to verify the identity of Brown Mogotsi, and Nkabinde was said to have arranged meetings between Mogotsi, Mchunu, and community members. Nkabinde later testified in Parliament about his interactions with Mkhwanazi, which were linked to the Stilfontein matter. He was alleged to be among individuals who would be promoted within SAPS in exchange for cooperation, and also provided a sworn statement in a High Court case involving a former national police commissioner.

Brigadier Noema presided as Chairperson of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, bringing her experience as an Advocate and Senior Counsel to the proceedings. She often described working long hours into the early morning, a practice she noted clients might find hard to believe. During testimony, she questioned the legal prescripts governing which officer controls a crime scene and raised an issue about an alleged drug route from Pakistan through Mozambique. She also made an unfortunate remark implicitly characterising Umlazi residents as unsophisticated, and later engaged in legal discussions about the mental element of criminal intent and the drawing of adverse inferences from unanswered evidence.

Crossby Vusi Shongwe is a parliamentary figure who testified before the Madlanga Commission as a member of the Ad Hoc Committee established to probe allegations made by General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. His testimony centred on questions he raised within that committee regarding the arrest of General Khumalo, which he linked to the hiring of a lady from BMW, and what he described as a "Khan-Johnson relationship" connecting various dots in the matter. Shongwe also voiced concerns about the use of IDAC and IPID as a "weapon," questioned how interview scores could surpass the number of four people who scored candidates, and acknowledged missing deadlines twice due to workload and travel, taking full responsibility for the delays.

Brigadier Mishak Mkhabela is a senior South African Police Service ballistics expert. He trained at the SAP Academy in Graaff-Reinet and qualified as a ballistic expert at the Forensic Science Laboratory. He served as Provincial Head of the Forensic Science Laboratory in KZN, later led the ballistic section in Port Elizabeth around 2010, and headed the IBIS section in Silverton from 2014. In January 2024 he was promoted to Brigadier and appointed National Head of Ballistics. Before the Commission, he stated that he only became aware during the testimony that another analyst had recovered a serial number that had previously been unrecovered. He also described his process for investigating complaints and noted that member work notes are stored in case files.

Michael Pule Tau is a former warrant officer in the South African Police Service's detective branch, previously based at Johannesburg Central. He was arrested and charged with the murder of Mr Swart, resigning from the police after being released on bail on health grounds. Testimony described Tau as having unlimited access to technology and his syndicate contacts while on bail, and he was accused of making threats against the investigation team. A plot to eliminate the investigating officers was also raised in the proceedings. Substantial public funds were reportedly spent on securing top advocates for his defence, and he faced the prospect of a life sentence for assassination-related charges.

Lieutenant-General Richard Mdluli is a former Divisional Commissioner of the South African Police Service whose tenure became the subject of scrutiny during the Madlanga Commission. Testimony before the commission indicated that investigations were launched against him during his time in that role, though the nature and outcome of those inquiries were not detailed in the record. His name arises in the context of internal police accountability, with the commission hearing that these probes were initiated against him as a senior figure. Beyond this, the record provides no further biographical detail, leaving his broader career and the resolution of those investigations unaddressed in the testimony presented.

Brigadier Lesiba Joseph Mokoena is the Section Head of the Tactical Operation Management Section within the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI, known as the Hawks), a role he has held since 2010. His policing career began in the former Stability Unit and the Riot Stability Unit before moving to the Task Team in Johannesburg. He joined the Hi-Tech Project Centre in 2007 and was later incorporated into the DPCI in April 2010. At the commission, Mokoena testified about his career history and confirmed his signature on documents. He also recalled receiving a call from his divisional commissioner, Lieutenant General Dumisani Patrick Mbotho, regarding a deployment, which Mokoena stated had not occurred at the relevant site. He was nicknamed “Kleintjie” by the late General Maleka.

Jaco Hanekom was a police informant and intelligence gatherer whose work and death became a focus of the Madlanga Commission. Testimony described him as someone who seldom slept and was highly effective at collecting information, often calling officers late at night to report successful operations, including the recovery of a truck in Brakpan. He was shot in a drive-by shooting on the same day that three individuals—Stols, McKenzi, and Twala—were granted bail. Hanekom had told officers that Etienne arrived by helicopter. After his death, it emerged that he had been a suspect in the Brakpan murder case, and his wife later testified that he had been starting a business. He was also known for introducing police units to security companies and other contacts.

Major General Lushaba served as the Chief Financial Officer of Crime Intelligence, a position that placed him among the signatories to the unit’s secret services account. His conduct came under scrutiny during the commission’s hearings, particularly regarding an incident in August 2022 in which his state-issued firearm, laptop, and cell phone were reportedly stolen. Testimony described how he allegedly enlisted two colonels to retrieve the items and tamper with the police docket he had opened, replacing its contents with fake papers. He also faced questions about why no disciplinary action was taken against him following the incident, with allegations suggesting the involvement of a prostitute.

Ms Van der Heever appeared before the commission as the legal representative of Mr Molefe. An advocate, she sought adjournments citing other professional commitments and argued forcefully that the commission’s compulsion to give evidence could not override her client’s constitutional rights. She raised concerns that a section 105A plea agreement had omitted material issues that would have influenced its outcome, and she stated that she and her attorney declined to answer questions until provided with notes from the negotiations. She indicated that if necessary, she would make full legal submissions and take the matter on review.

Maj-Gen Ebrahim Ahmed Kadwa is the Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks) in Gauteng, having served with the unit since its inception in July 2009. His operational career has focused primarily on narcotics and organised crime. During the commission, he testified about receiving a directive from the National Head to verify whether Hawks members were operating at a specific address—a request he acted on without questioning the source. He acknowledged not following up with Colonel Serfontein that afternoon to the best of his recollection and could not confirm whether he made any calls without itemised billing. He was also questioned about whether any subsequent follow-up was done on his own initiative rather than under direction.

Palesa Mafisa was a legal representative for Major General Senona during the South African Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. In her interactions with the commission on Day 47, she addressed procedural matters regarding the witness’s testimony schedule and the disclosure of evidence. She raised concerns about being informed only that day that more time would be needed for Senona’s testimony, and argued about what constituted sufficient cause for non-attendance. Mafisa also discussed the scope of agreed-upon annexures—specifically WhatsApp chats marked SEN1 to SEN7—and noted that a video not flagged as an annexure was now being used, which her team had not anticipated. She further requested that any additional videos be provided, and mentioned that certain paragraphs in the testimony should not be read aloud for safety reasons.

Constable Kecia Stols, also referred to as Kershia Leigh Stols, was an officer with the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department. Her conduct became a focus of the commission, with testimony alleging she made copies of official documentation and kept them in her vehicle for reasons described as unlawful. Questions were raised about her involvement alongside Officer Adrian McKenzie on duty in early 2023, including at a scene where a truck and trailer load allegedly destined for Congo were found on a plot in Putfontein. The testimony also described that she resigned of her own free will in July and later lodged an unfair dismissal claim through arbitration, with one witness stating he felt he was victimising her by testifying against her.

Colonel Ntandoyenkosi Khuzwayo served as the Chemistry Section Commander at the Forensic Science Laboratory in KwaZulu-Natal, having joined the laboratory as an Assistant Forensic Analyst in 2002 and rising to a forensic analyst role by 2005. During the commission’s inquiry, she faced questions about refusing to accept exhibits due to a lack of storage space and flooding issues, and about directing her team to assist DPCI members at a crime scene—though she did not attend herself, explaining she was occupied with other work. Her testimony indicated she was not initially told the nature of the scene but assumed it involved a clandestine drug laboratory.

Captain Solomon Modisane is a forensic ballistics analyst with the South African Police Service, assigned to the Priority and Kidnapping Task Team (PKTT) and deployed at the KwaZulu-Natal Forensic Science Laboratory in Amanzimtoti. He began his career at the Silverton lab in 2008, holding a National Diploma in Policing from Tshwane University of Technology and completing ballistics training into 2011. Before the commission, Modisane described being directed to compare evidence from three unresolved political killing cases in KwaZulu-Natal, including the murders of DJ Sumbody and Don Tindleni, which he said had stalled with no arrests. He also testified about assisting other officers with ballistics examinations for agent cases.

Adv Elaine Harrison served as the Director of Public Prosecutions for KwaZulu-Natal, initially appointed in an acting capacity in May 2019 before being permanently appointed on 1 November 2019. A career prosecutor who joined the NPA in 2000, her responsibilities included supervising and directing criminal proceedings and coordinating prosecutors in the province. Before the commission, she testified about frustrations in coordinating NPA efforts with a task team and expressed concerns about unclear information regarding a letter. She affirmed that she has always exercised her mandate without fear, favour, or prejudice.

Advocate Mohomane is a legal representative who appeared before the South African Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, where he presented submissions on evidentiary and procedural matters. He argued over the legal significance of deleted WhatsApp records, acknowledging uncertainty about their contents and whether any omissions were intentional. Mohomane also raised a point in limine concerning a Commission attorney’s affidavit, but later withdrew the objection after the Chair’s guidance. During exchanges, he was questioned about alleged promises that a witness would be protected from adverse findings, and faced challenges over the coherence of his arguments. His testimony focused on the admissibility and completeness of evidence, particularly in relation to an application for recusal.

Mr Mswazi, also identified in testimony as Mr Msibi, is a figure connected to the taxi industry who came under scrutiny during the Commission’s proceedings. Described by Lieutenant General Sibiya as someone who was involved with taxi structures across the country, including in KZN, he was referred to as a "taxi boss" in the record. Testimony from Sergeant Nkosi reportedly confirmed that the person known as Mswazi Taxi Boss was indeed Mr Msibi. He faced questions about his awareness of the witness known as "number one," with suggestions that he appeared to know who that referred to, though the precise nature of his role or knowledge remained a point of inquiry.

Advocate Sikhakhane appeared as a legal representative before the Madlanga Commission, where he raised sharp questions about the pace of internal disciplinary processes. He expressed scepticism that investigations into a roughly R13 million loss could properly take over a year, and challenged why it would take 12 months to act on what he described as an obvious transgression. Later in the proceedings, his focus shifted to procedural matters, including the scope of document requests, the relevance of a tender cancellation, and a court order that had appointed 22 contractors. At one point he sought a brief adjournment, asking for 30 minutes to review documents he had not yet seen.

Bheki Cele served as South Africa’s National Police Commissioner before becoming Minister of Police, a role in which he faced scrutiny during the commission. Testimony described his involvement in disciplinary matters and his oversight when a R360 million police contract was awarded to businessman Mr Matlala. Cele addressed media on behalf of an Inter-Ministerial Committee on political killings and wrote to the National Director about case coordination, voicing concerns over delays. He was also said to have directed the police Task Team to investigate the Fort Hare University matter. Questions arose about a statement he made in Parliament regarding a meeting, which his successor called a lie, and an advocate noted that Cele himself was implicated in two serious criminal cases.

Thuso Keefelakae is the Director, Investigation and Provincial Coordinator at the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID). His testimony before the commission focused on IPID’s work in the Gauteng region, particularly Ekurhuleni, and included reference to investigations involving Brigadier JM Mkhwanazi. He faced questions about whether his mention of “the MEC” referred specifically to the MEC for Community Safety, and about follow‑up actions taken at the Meyerton Police Station after earlier testimony by Commissioner Spies. Keefelakae also remarked on falsehoods being told and names being dropped in connection with the matters under inquiry.

Investigator Bellochun, also referred to as Suneel Bellochun, is a figure whose conduct came under scrutiny during the commission’s proceedings. Testimony described him pulling over a motorist in 2000 for driving without a license, after which he was accused of extorting money from that individual and other Pakistani shopkeepers, exploiting their undocumented status or lack of business permits. He was further alleged to have engaged in unlawful activities, including selling counterfeit cigarettes and assisting Pakistani nationals in obtaining fraudulent South African identity documents for payment. The record also includes threats reportedly sent via WhatsApp demanding repayment, and an affidavit from Sergeant Nkosi describing Bellochun questioning him about alleged corrupt relationships involving senior police officials, while also referencing a case opened against him by a former officer.

Lucky Molefe is a person facing proceedings at the Vereeniging Magistrates’ Court, where he appeared in December 2024 following an arrest. Testimony described him as a business partner of the late Mswazi, and the commission chairperson questioned the inference that Molefe could have ordered a hit. During his court appearance, his legal representative sought a postponement to February 2025, citing the need to amend an affidavit after the state discovered a previous conviction in the United Kingdom that Molefe had not disclosed. Discrepancies were noted between the name and date of birth he used and his South African registration. His relationship to a witness was also disputed after he reportedly denied being a relative.