Explosive police corruption claims: DA MP responds as Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi drags Parliament into SAPS slush fund scandal
DA MP Dianne Kohler Barnard appears before Parliament’s police committee amid allegations raised by KZN commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has become a central figure in a widening political and policing controversy after his allegations of corruption and intelligence leaks dragged Parliament into a high-stakes inquiry involving senior opposition figures.
On Wednesday, Democratic Alliance (DA) MP Dianne Kohler Barnard appeared before Parliament’s ad hoc committee investigating police corruption, where she firmly denied claims that she mishandled classified Crime Intelligence information — accusations that originated from Mkhwanazi.
DA MP Denies Intelligence Leak Allegations
Kohler Barnard told the committee that she never shared classified intelligence and insisted that all information referenced in her public statements was already in the public domain.
In her sworn affidavit, she explained that her January 2025 remarks were based on media reports and official government statements, including coverage by News24 and confirmation from Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson that a controversial Pretoria North property was not purchased through his department.
The DA MP is accused of involvement in leaking sensitive information related to the R23 million purchase of a so-called “luxury hotel”, allegedly acquired by SAPS Crime Intelligence using a secret slush fund.
Allegations Stem From Claims by Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi
The parliamentary inquiry follows explosive claims by Mkhwanazi, who alleged that Kohler Barnard shared confidential intelligence and was linked to a criminal syndicate undermining police operations.
Mkhwanazi, one of South Africa’s most high-profile police commissioners, has positioned himself as a vocal critic of corruption within the SAPS, frequently raising alarms about misuse of Crime Intelligence funds, irregular procurement processes, and internal sabotage.
His allegations have now escalated into a formal parliamentary process, intensifying scrutiny on both police leadership and political oversight.
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Slush Fund and Procurement Under Spotlight
During her testimony, Kohler Barnard acknowledged deep-seated problems within SAPS, but shifted focus to structural failures, not criminal intent on her part.
She described the handling of the Crime Intelligence slush fund as a major contributor to dysfunction within the police service.
“The slush fund is a huge problem. Globally, these funds are handled very differently. Everyone has them, but the way it’s handled here has been extremely difficult,” she told the committee.
Her comments echoed long-standing concerns raised by civil society and oversight bodies about the lack of transparency and accountability surrounding intelligence funding.
Political Fallout and What Comes Next
Kohler Barnard’s appearance is only the beginning of the committee’s work. Fellow DA MP Fadiel Adams is expected to testify next, facing similar allegations connected to the same intelligence controversy.
The inquiry forms part of broader parliamentary efforts to address police corruption, intelligence failures, and governance breakdowns within SAPS, issues that have plagued the service for over a decade.
For Mkhwanazi, the developments further cement his role as a polarising but influential figure in South Africa’s policing landscape, praised by some for speaking out and criticised by others for politicising intelligence matters.
Why This Case Matters Nationally
The confrontation between Parliament, senior politicians, and SAPS leadership underscores a deeper crisis: who controls intelligence, how it is funded, and who is held accountable when secrecy collides with democracy.
As the committee continues its hearings, the spotlight remains firmly on Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, SAPS Crime Intelligence, and the political consequences of exposing, or allegedly leaking, sensitive information.
FAQ
Who is Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi?
Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Police Commissioner and a senior SAPS leader known for publicly raising concerns about corruption within the police service.
What allegations did Mkhwanazi make?
He accused DA MP Dianne Kohler Barnard of sharing classified Crime Intelligence information and alleged links to a criminal syndicate.
What is the SAPS slush fund controversy?
The controversy involves claims that Crime Intelligence used secret funds to purchase a R23 million Pretoria North property, raising questions about legality and oversight.
Did Dianne Kohler Barnard leak classified information?
She denies the allegations, stating that all information she referenced was already publicly available through media reports and official government statements.
Why is Parliament involved?
Parliament established an ad hoc committee to investigate police corruption, intelligence leaks, and the role of politicians in accessing sensitive SAPS information.
What happens next in the inquiry?
The committee will hear further testimony, including from DA MP Fadiel Adams, before deciding on findings or recommendations.
Why is this case important?
The matter highlights systemic weaknesses in SAPS intelligence operations and raises broader concerns about accountability, secrecy, and political oversight.