SAPS debunks fake news of raid at late Dudu Myeni’s Richards Bay home
On 24 July 2025, the South African Police Service (SAPS) firmly denied circulating rumours of a police raid at the Richards Bay home of the late Dudu Myeni, former chairperson of the South African Airways (SAA) board. Reports that the National Intervention Unit (NIU) uncovered R18 million in a safe during such a raid have been labelled completely false by SAPS officials.
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the national spokesperson for SAPS, addressed the issue directly, emphasising the importance of responsible social media conduct. “No raid was undertaken by any of our units, especially not the National Intervention Unit,” Mathe stated. He further urged members of the public to verify information before sharing it online, highlighting the dangers of spreading misinformation.
The controversy around Myeni is well documented. She passed away from cancer in June 2024, leaving behind a complex legacy. Prior to her death, she and businessman Trevor Mathenjwa faced corruption and fraud charges related to the prison services provider Bosasa, involving an amount of approximately R300,000. The allegations included improper benefits such as security upgrades to her Richards Bay home, valued at around R200,000, as well as travel and accommodation perks facilitated by Bosasa-linked companies.
Myeni was also convicted in 2022 for obstructing justice after unmasking an anonymous witness at the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into State Capture. She received a fine, part of which was suspended, after pleading guilty.
The alleged raid at her former residence—now owned by her son Thalente—had sparked widespread discussion on social media platforms, only to be swiftly quashed by SAPS. The police’s clear refutation serves as a reminder of the risks fake news poses to public trust and the integrity of law enforcement.
As the nation continues to grapple with issues of corruption and accountability, SAPS’s call for verified reporting and responsible social media use remains crucial. The truth behind the Myeni case, while complex, should be understood based on verified facts—not sensationalised rumours.
