MK Party’s Van Rooyen Calls for Special Protection for MPs on SAPS Corruption Probe Amid Escalating Tensions

In a dramatic escalation of concerns surrounding Parliament’s ad hoc committee investigating corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS), MK Party parliamentarian Des van Rooyen has demanded special security measures for the MPs involved. Speaking outside the Cape Town Central Police Station on Thursday, 28 November 2025, Van Rooyen highlighted what he described as inadequate protection amid dealings with “sophisticated criminal syndicates.” This call comes despite no reported threats directly against committee members, but follows the party’s filing of criminal complaints against two key witnesses: criminologist Mary de Haas and forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan. As the committee continues its hearings at Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre in Pretoria, questioning businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, the push for enhanced security underscores growing fears of intimidation and backlash in this high-stakes inquiry into police misconduct.

The ad hoc committee, established to probe allegations of criminal infiltration, corruption, and political interference in the justice system, has already heard explosive testimony from various figures, including suspended officials and whistleblowers. Van Rooyen’s plea reflects broader anxieties about the safety of those exposing deep-rooted issues in SAPS, especially given the tragic history of whistleblower assassinations in South Africa. With the probe nearing its conclusion, these developments could influence recommendations for reforming the police service, a critical institution plagued by scandals.

Van Rooyen’s Urgent Call for Enhanced MP Security

Van Rooyen, a prominent MK Party MP and former minister, made his appeal clear during a media briefing after laying charges at the police station. “It’s the very same SAPS, senior officers of SAPS are implicated in this matter. So we are calling for a special security provision dispensation to cater for all the members of the ad hoc committee,” he stated. He argued that Parliament’s standard security protocols are insufficient when dealing with powerful syndicates, insisting that MPs should not be left vulnerable. “It was clear from the word go that they would be dealing with sophisticated criminal syndicates. For them to just be left on their own or to normal processes of provision of security by Parliament is not adequate,” Van Rooyen added.

While no direct threats against MPs have surfaced, Van Rooyen cited an alleged threatening text message sent to Cedric Nkabinde, chief of staff to Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, as justification. Nkabinde, who testified before the committee last week, received the message shortly after his appearance, warning him of consequences for alleged lies. The MK Party has attributed the SMS to O’Sullivan, a well-known anti-corruption crusader, and filed a complaint against him for intimidation. The message reportedly read: “Get ready you lying crook… You were bribed by Mkhwanazi and Mapula,” referring to implicated police figures. Committee members have condemned such actions, stating they will not tolerate threats and calling for swift police intervention.

Parliament’s response has been measured, with no immediate confirmation of additional security. However, the institution has previously provided protection details for high-profile inquiries, such as the State Capture Commission. Critics argue that Van Rooyen’s demand may be politically motivated, given the MK Party’s vocal criticism of the current administration and its alignment with former president Jacob Zuma.

Criminal Complaints Against Witnesses De Haas and O’Sullivan

The MK Party’s actions on Thursday extended beyond security calls, with formal complaints lodged against De Haas and O’Sullivan. De Haas, a respected independent crime researcher and former University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) honorary fellow, testified on 20 November 2025 about systemic issues in KZN policing, including alleged hit squads and political killings. The party accuses her of misrepresenting her qualifications by allowing herself to be addressed as “Dr” or “Professor,” implying she holds a PhD.

UKZN clarified last week that De Haas earned a Master’s degree in 1987 but never completed a doctorate, despite being an honorary research fellow from 2000 to 2015. The university stated she is not entitled to the titles “Dr” or “Professor,” and the committee’s referral to her as such was an error. Van Rooyen explained: “We expect that SAPS will definitely retrieve the records of the Ad Hoc Committee… to confirm the misrepresentation.” De Haas has defended her credentials, noting her extensive publications and expertise in criminology, but the complaint could lead to perjury charges if proven.

The charge against O’Sullivan stems from the alleged SMS to Nkabinde, which MPs view as witness tampering. O’Sullivan, founder of Forensics for Justice, has been a thorn in the side of corrupt officials, exposing scandals like the Phala Phala farm saga. He denies sending threats, claiming any messages were in pursuit of truth. The committee has referred the matter to SAPS, with chairperson Ian Cameron emphasising zero tolerance for intimidation.

These complaints follow the MK Party’s earlier accusations against Mchunu for allegedly lying about his ties to businessman Brown Mogotsi, implicated in police corruption. The party claims Mchunu denied knowing Mogotsi, despite evidence suggesting otherwise.

Ongoing Hearings and Broader Implications for SAPS Reform

The ad hoc committee, now in its 22nd day, is currently interrogating Matlala at Kgosi Mampuru prison. Matlala, facing attempted murder charges, has provided insights into alleged police involvement in kidnappings and extortion rings. Recent sessions also featured Deputy Police Minister Cassel Mathale, who addressed National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council recommendations.

Established in response to reports of deep-seated issues in SAPS, including the 2022 Zondo Commission findings, the committee has exposed mismanagement and criminal networks. Witnesses like De Haas have detailed KZN’s policing failures, while others have implicated senior officers in cover-ups.

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