Inside Musa Khawula arrest: Explosive testimony, political pressure claims and the Madlanga commission bombshell
Musa Khawula appears in court amid Madlanga Commission revelations. Image Source: X
Controversial social media commentator and blogger Musa Khawula has emerged as a central figure in dramatic testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, with witnesses alleging political pressure, improper police conduct, and behind-the-scenes attempts to suppress his reporting.
The commission, which is probing allegations of corruption and interference within the South African Police Service (SAPS), heard evidence linking Khawula’s arrest to senior police officials and politically connected figures, revelations that have intensified national debate around media freedom, abuse of power, and the criminalisation of online speech.
WhatsApp Messages Reveal Direct Police Contact With Musa Khawula
Testifying before the commission, Witness F revealed that Major-General Richard Shibiri, Gauteng’s head of organised crime, was in direct WhatsApp communication with Khawula prior to his arrest.
Screenshots presented to the commission show Shibiri requesting that Khawula refrain from publishing stories about alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, describing Matlala as someone who “lives a private life” and “never bothers anyone”.
While Witness F said he could not confirm whether Khawula was explicitly threatened, he testified that the instruction to intervene originated from higher command, raising serious concerns about interference in journalistic activity.
Shadrack Sibiya Implicated in Khawula Arrest Warrant Leak
According to Witness F, the operational direction to act against Khawula came from suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya.
In one of the most alarming disclosures, Witness F admitted that he was instructed to share Khawula’s arrest warrant with Matlala, a civilian and alleged underworld-linked figure. The justification, he claimed, was that Matlala’s private security company allegedly knew Khawula’s weekend movements.
The commission noted this as one of several instances where confidential SAPS documents were unlawfully shared with civilians, a practice that could amount to serious misconduct or criminal offences.
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Political Pressure Allegedly Followed Online Posts About ANC Figures
Witness F further testified that Sibiya later phoned him, stating that he was under intense pressure from high-ranking political offices. While no formal accusation was made, Witness F said he understood the pressure to involve Deputy Police Minister Cassel Mathale.
The alleged pressure followed Khawula’s May 8 social media posts in which he accused Nozuko Mbalula, the wife of ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, and Michelle Perrow of involvement in an alleged R150 million fraud and corruption scheme.
Cybercrime Charges and Use of Private Security to Track Musa Khawula
Following the posts, SAPS sought to arrest Khawula under the Cybercrime Act and for crimen injuria. The commission heard that police enlisted Matlala’s private security company to help locate the blogger, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from legal observers.
Khawula also made numerous allegations online linking Matlala and his associates to fraud at Tembisa Hospital, organised crime networks, and high-profile killings. These allegations remain untested in court.
Johannesburg High Court Ruling Adds Legal Weight
In a separate but related development, the Johannesburg High Court ruled that Khawula’s statements about Mbalula and Perrow were unlawful, ordering him to pay damages. The court ruling is distinct from the Madlanga Commission proceedings but adds legal context to the ongoing controversy.
Why Musa Khawula’s Case Matters Nationally
The Khawula saga has become a flashpoint for broader concerns about freedom of expression, political influence over policing, and the boundaries of online commentary in South Africa.
As the Madlanga Commission continues, its findings could have far-reaching implications for SAPS accountability, cybercrime enforcement, and the treatment of outspoken digital journalists.
FAQ
Who is Musa Khawula?
Musa Khawula is a South African social media commentator and blogger known for posting allegations involving celebrities, politicians, and business figures.
Why was Musa Khawula arrested?
He was arrested following online posts that led to charges under the Cybercrime Act and crimen injuria, after complaints from individuals mentioned in his allegations.
What is the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry?
The Madlanga Commission is investigating allegations of corruption, political interference, and misconduct within SAPS and related institutions.
How is Musa Khawula linked to the Madlanga Commission?
Witnesses testified that senior police officials discussed Khawula’s online activity and facilitated his arrest under alleged political pressure.
Was political pressure involved in Khawula’s arrest?
According to testimony by Witness F, senior police officials claimed they were under pressure from high-ranking political offices, though this has not yet been legally confirmed.
What role did Shadrack Sibiya allegedly play?
Sibiya allegedly instructed that Khawula’s arrest warrant be shared with a civilian, raising concerns about unlawful conduct and abuse of authority.
Has a court ruled against Musa Khawula?
Yes. The Johannesburg High Court ruled that certain statements he made were unlawful and ordered him to pay damages.
Is the Madlanga Commission still ongoing?
Yes. Hearings are continuing, with further testimony expected on police conduct and political interference.