Madlanga Commission seeks closed-door hearing for Crime Intelligence witness

Joburg Evidence leaders at the Madlanga Commission have applied to hear testimony from a former Crime Intelligence officer behind closed doors, citing national-security concerns and the safety of informants, according to The Citizen.

Application seeks in camera testimony

According to The Citizen, the application to hold the hearing in camera was filed on 1 October 2026. The witness, identified in filings as “Witness S”, is expected to give evidence about undercover Crime Intelligence operations aimed at gathering information on an organised crime syndicate that had infiltrated the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Limits on disclosure and attendance

The Citizen reports that evidence leader Geraldine Burger said much of the material relied on during Witness S’s testimony consists of declassified operational records that have been cleared for Commission use but are not authorised for public dissemination. The application asks that transcripts, recordings and documents from the hearing be kept confidential and that attendance be limited to people authorised by the Commission Chairperson.

Media window to oppose

Media houses were given 72 hours to oppose the application. The Citizen says Chairperson Mbuyiseli Madlanga will consider any opposition before making a ruling.

Timing and who would attend

Witness S was scheduled to testify on 7 October 2026. According to The Citizen, if the in camera application succeeds, only commissioners, evidence leaders and authorised attorneys would be permitted to attend the hearing.

Why secrecy is sought

In an affidavit quoted by The Citizen, Burger said the witness will describe sensitive undercover activities and warned that public testimony would prevent him from giving much of the evidence the leaders want to hear. Burger also warned of risks to informants if identities were disclosed.

“Witness S will testify in relation to undercover Crime Intelligence operations with which he was involved as a Crime Intelligence officer, and which involved an attempt to gather information on an organised crime syndicate which had infiltrated the Saps.”

“Unless he is to testify in camera, it will not be possible for him to give most of the evidence that the evidence leaders want him to give.”

“Should the identity of the informants be disclosed, their physical safety and possibly their lives will be put at risk.”

Broader context

The Citizen notes the Madlanga Commission is investigating criminality, political interference and corruption in the criminal justice system. The Commission was established following allegations made publicly by Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi in July 2025, The Citizen reports.

The Chairperson will now consider any media opposition before deciding whether to grant the evidence leaders’ request for a closed hearing.