High-Profile Testimony
By Chris Williams
Cape Town –
Former acting national police commissioner Lieutenant-General Khomotso Phahlane is set to testify tomorrow before Parliament’s ad hoc committee probing serious allegations of corruption, political interference, and criminal infiltration within South Africa’s policing system.
Scheduled for Wednesday, 14 January 2026, his appearance marks the start of the second phase of oral hearings, where he will face questions on claims raised by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
This high-stakes session comes as the committee races against a 20 February deadline to wrap up its work and deliver findings that could shake the foundations of law enforcement.
Phahlane’s testimony is expected to shed light on his time in leadership, including the dynamics between senior SAPS officials, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate, and external figures like private investigators.
As a key player in past controversies, his evidence could either clarify or complicate the narrative of systemic issues plaguing the police service.
Background to the Ad Hoc Committee Inquiry
The ad hoc committee was set up in terms of National Assembly Rule 253 to investigate explosive claims made by Mkhwanazi about deep-rooted corruption and interference in policing.
These allegations point to a web involving politicians, crime syndicates, and even elements within the justice system, undermining efforts to fight crime effectively.
Hearings kicked off last year but were extended to allow for thorough evidence gathering.
The committee has already heard from various witnesses, including Police Minister Senzo Mchunu’s chief of staff, Cedrick Nkabinde, who spoke on alleged meddling in investigations.
Now, in this final push, the focus shifts to high-profile figures whose insights could tie together the puzzle.
Phahlane, who served as acting commissioner from 2015 to 2017, has a history tied to probes into corruption.
He faced investigations by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate over claims of improper dealings, including the controversial “blue lights” tender for police vehicles and links to companies that benefited from SAPS contracts.
Though some charges were dropped or he was cleared in certain matters, his role during a turbulent period in policing makes his testimony crucial.
Phahlane’s Expected Focus Areas
During his appearance in the Good Hope Chamber at Parliament, Phahlane is likely to address claims of interference in probes involving the Independent Police Investigative Directorate, its former head Robert McBride, and forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan.
These elements form part of the broader allegations of how powerful interests may have shielded corrupt officials or derailed justice.
His evidence could touch on the functioning of the police during his tenure, including relationships with oversight bodies and responses to internal corruption reports.
As a former top cop, Phahlane’s perspective might defend the service’s integrity or reveal lapses that allowed criminal networks to thrive.
The committee aims to test these claims rigorously, seeking clarity on how such issues persisted over years.
This session is part of a packed schedule running from 14 January to early February, designed to wrap up all witness testimonies. Phahlane takes the stand first at 11:00, setting the tone for what follows.
Line-Up of Other Key Witnesses
Following Phahlane, the committee has lined up a roster of influential figures whose testimonies promise to unpack the allegations further.
Crime Intelligence head Lieutenant-General Dumisani Khumalo is scheduled over two days, expected to provide his version of events as the task team project leader.
Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi, former Independent Police Investigative Directorate head Robert McBride, businessman Brown Mogotsi, and forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan round out the list.
Each brings unique insights: McBride on oversight failures, O’Sullivan on private probes into corruption, and Mogotsi on potential business ties to criminal elements.
These hearings build on earlier sessions where witnesses like Mkhwanazi detailed claims of syndicates infiltrating police ranks, influencing promotions, and blocking investigations.
The committee’s senior counsel, Norman Arendse, has confirmed consultations with most witnesses to ensure smooth proceedings.
Broader Implications for South African Policing
This inquiry goes beyond individual testimonies; it strikes at the heart of trust in law enforcement.
Mkhwanazi’s initial allegations painted a picture of a system compromised by political meddling and criminal collusion, eroding public confidence and hampering crime-fighting efforts.
If proven, these issues could lead to major reforms, including stricter oversight, better vetting of officers, and independent probes into high-level corruption.
For everyday South Africans battling high crime rates, the outcomes could mean safer streets and a more accountable police force.
The committee’s work has already drawn parallels to past inquiries like the State Capture Commission, highlighting patterns of interference that span administrations.
With an extension until 20 February 2026, there is time to delve deep, but pressure mounts to deliver actionable recommendations.
Community and Political Reactions
Reactions to the upcoming testimonies are mixed, with civil society groups calling for transparency and swift justice. Some see Phahlane’s appearance as a chance for redemption or revelation, while others worry it might deflect from core problems.
Political parties have weighed in, urging the committee to resist temptations to stray too far from its mandate while ensuring all angles are covered.
Public submissions and civil society inputs will follow the oral hearings, adding diverse voices to the process.
As the nation watches, this inquiry represents a pivotal moment for accountability in policing.
Phahlane’s testimony tomorrow could set the stage for breakthroughs or more questions, but one thing is clear: South Africa’s quest for a clean, effective police service hangs in the balance.
🔴Central News Special Edition | Issue 122: Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Suspended Ekurhuleni Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi Vows ‘I Can’t Go to Jail and Leave My Kids’ Amid Blue Lights Saga Scrutiny 🔴
Download here⬇️⬇️⬇️
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube