Shadrack Sibiya under fire: South Africa’s deputy Police Chief accused of corruption and political imterference at Madlanga Commission
Shadrack Sibiya
Suspended Shadrach Sibiya appeared before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry in Pretoria, facing intense cross-examination over allegations of corruption, political meddling, and closing key police task teams. The commission was established by President Cyril Ramaphosa to investigate claims that South Africa’s criminal justice system had been compromised.
Sibiya, who serves as Deputy National Police Commissioner for Crime Detection, denied receiving bribes from alleged criminals Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and Katiso Molefe but faced repeated scrutiny from South Africa’s top advocates during Day Two of the inquiry.
Allegations of Bribery and Corruption
According to the commission, Sibiya allegedly received bribes including cash, luxury vehicles, and other gifts through intermediaries. He strongly denied all accusations. The alleged benefactors, Matlala and Molefe, are facing charges ranging from murder to attempted murder.
The inquiry also highlighted a claim that General Hilda Senthumule received financial assistance for cosmetic surgery reportedly sponsored by Matlala, raising questions about conflict of interest within the police force.
Controversy Over Political Killings Task Team (PKTT)
Sibiya came under fire for allegedly shuttering the KZN Political Killings Task Team, a move critics claim was influenced by political pressure. He explained that his decision was part of a broader plan to reallocate resources to other departments, yet evidence suggested inconsistencies between his actions and prior approvals for funding the task team.
Commissioners repeatedly pressed him on letters and documents implicating his role, suggesting he acted under ministerial directives without proper protocol.
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Cross-Examination Highlights
Under questioning by advocates Adila Hassim SC, Sesi Baloyi SC, and Sandile Khumalo SC, Sibiya struggled to maintain his narrative. He frequently dodged direct answers, prompting pointed remarks from the commission:
- Baloyi: “Why not the taxi killings task team?”
- Khumalo: “General, stop that”, after Sibiya’s theatrical apologies for minor document errors.
- Madlanga: “You say you did not expect this letter… but you’ve said it four times. This seems inconsistent.”
The exchanges painted a picture of a senior officer caught between loyalty to superiors and public scrutiny over corruption allegations.
Public Reaction and Political Implications
Sibiya’s testimony has sparked outrage and debate across South Africa. Analysts note that the allegations, if proven, reveal deep-rooted issues of patronage and corruption within the SAPS. Citizens and media have questioned accountability and transparency at the highest levels of policing.
The Madlanga Commission continues to hear evidence, with further sessions expected to probe Sibiya’s actions and the wider implications for South Africa’s justice system.
FAQ
Who is Shadrack Sibiya?
Shadrack Sibiya is the suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner for Crime Detection in South Africa. He is currently facing allegations of corruption and political interference.
What is the Madlanga Commission?
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, established by President Cyril Ramaphosa, investigates claims of criminality, corruption, and political meddling within South Africa’s police service.
What allegations is Sibiya facing?
He faces accusations of accepting bribes from alleged criminals Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and Katiso Molefe and improperly disbanding the KwaZulu-Natal Political Killings Task Team (PKTT).
Did Sibiya admit to taking bribes?
No, Sibiya has denied all allegations of receiving bribes, cash, vehicles, or other gifts.
What is the controversy over the PKTT?
Sibiya allegedly closed the task team investigating political killings under questionable circumstances, drawing criticism for failing to follow proper protocol.
Who are Matlala and Molefe?
Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and Katiso Molefe are accused criminal figures linked to bribery allegations involving Sibiya. Matlala is a well-known alleged “criminal kingpin” in South Africa.
What role did Hilda Senthumule play?
Sibiya claimed that General Hilda Senthumule received financial assistance from Matlala for cosmetic surgery, raising conflict-of-interest concerns.
Is Sibiya still in office?
No, he has been suspended pending the outcome of investigations and the commission’s findings.
What are the next steps in the inquiry?
The Madlanga Commission will continue cross-examinations and gather evidence to determine the veracity of corruption and political interference claims.