President Cyril Ramaphosa has accepted the interim recommendations of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry and has instructed law enforcement to move fast on criminal investigations linked to corruption claims.

The interim report recommends that five senior South African Police Service (SAPS) members face criminal investigation, with prosecutors expected to make urgent decisions once dockets are prepared.

Five SAPS Members Flagged for Criminal Action

The interim recommendations identify Major-General Lesetja Senona, Major-General Richard Shibiri, Brigadier Mbangwa Nkhwashu, Brigadier Rachel Matjeng and Sergeant Fannie Nkosi for criminal investigation.

The report links the cases to allegations that include corruption, fraud, murder and perjury. The interim findings are not final determinations, but the commission says there is enough prima facie evidence to justify immediate criminal referrals.

Senona Evidence Under Spotlight

Senona, who leads the Hawks in KwaZulu-Natal, testified that he tried to end his relationship with tenderpreneur Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala before Matlala’s arrest for attempted murder. The commission chair indicated that Senona’s version was not accepted, and the interim report recommends that the matter be pursued through the criminal justice process.

Ekurhuleni Officials Also Named

The interim recommendations also flag nine current and former officials linked to the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality and the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) for investigation and possible charges.

The list includes suspended EMPD chief Julius Mkhwanazi, EMPD officers Bafana Twala and Aiden McKenzie, former city manager Imogen Mashazi, HR head Linda Gxasheka and the metro’s head of legal, Advocate Kemi Behari.

Special Unit to Fast-Track Investigations

Ramaphosa has directed that a special unit be established to drive the investigations and ensure urgent action on the interim recommendations. The instruction includes coordination between police leadership and the acting police minister to speed up case preparation and accountability steps.

The commission is expected to continue its work, with further reporting to follow as more evidence is tested.