“Big Five” Probe: Parliament Seeks More Time for Landmark Police Corruption Inquiry

The parliamentary inquiry into one of the most serious allegations in South Africa’s democratic historya sophisticated crime syndicate operating within the country’s security forcesis set to be extended. The Ad Hoc Committee investigating claims made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has formally requested more time, citing the staggering complexity and scale of the task.

The investigation focuses on a group known as the “Big Five,” which Mkhwanazi publicly alleged in July has deeply infiltrated law enforcement and intelligence structures, compromising the very institutions meant to protect citizens.

An Overwhelming Response and a Packed Witness List

Since its first hearing on October 7, the committee, chaired by Soviet Lekganyane, has heard from nine high-profile witnesses, including suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola. However, the work is far from over.

The committee’s progress report revealed an overwhelming public response, with over 260,000 submissions received from citizens detailing experiences of interference and corruption within the criminal justice system. This deluge of information is a stark indicator of the systemic nature of the problem and the public’s desperate cry for accountability.

Adding to the complexity, a long list of key witnesses still needs to be heard. Notable names awaiting their turn include:

• Security analyst Mary De Haas

• Civilian witness Cedric Nkabinde

• Forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan

• And controversially, alleged crime boss Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, who is scheduled to testify from Kgosi Mampuru prison in late November.

Cross-Party Support with a Call for Efficiency

The request for an extension has received conditional support across the political spectrum. ANC MP Khusela Diko backed the move but stressed the need for clarity on the timeline, warning against an “indefinite probe.”

Echoing this sentiment, EFF MP Leigh-Ann Mathys supported the thorough approach but sought concrete details on the resources and time required to complete the public participation process.

The most pragmatic note came from ANC Chief Whip Mdumiseni Ntuli, who appealed for the witness list to be trimmed to prevent public fatigue. “Our work is crucial and highly publicised, but the longer it drags, the greater the risk of diminishing public interest,” Ntuli stated, suggesting that some witnesses could submit affidavits instead of appearing in person.

A Critical Juncture for Justice

The committee is now at a critical juncture. Chairperson Lekganyane confirmed a meeting with the Speaker of Parliament to formalize the extension request. The outcome will determine the pace and depth of an investigation that has captivated the nation.

The message from Parliament is clear: unravelling a syndicate allegedly embedded within the state’s security apparatus is a monumental task that cannot be rushed. The nation now waits to see if lawmakers will be given the time and tools needed to follow the evidence, no matter where it leads.

{Source: IOL}

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