Forensic investigator Paul O'Sullivan abruptly walked out of Parliament's ad hoc committee hearing on Thursday, 26 February 2026, causing uproar among MPs. He cited the need to catch a flight to Johannesburg after facing questions about allegations of being a spy or foreign agent. The incident highlights ongoing scrutiny in South Africa's justice system inquiries.


This walkout recalls a similar event involving former NDPP Shamila Batohi in December 2025, raising questions about witness protocols in parliamentary proceedings.

Dramatic Exit During Testimony

Paul O'Sullivan returned to the ad hoc committee to complete his evidence on allegations of corruption and criminal infiltration in the justice system. As the session neared its scheduled end at 1pm, he stood up and gathered his belongings.

He insisted on leaving voluntarily, stating,

"I have reached a point where I have to go."


MPs quickly intervened, leading to heated exchanges. The committee chairperson, Soviet Lekganyane, sought guidance from parliamentary legal advisors to address the unprecedented departure.

Background on the Inquiry

The ad hoc committee probes claims by SAPS KwaZulu-Natal provincial commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi regarding corruption, criminal infiltration, and political interference in South Africa's justice system. O'Sullivan, a prominent anti-corruption activist and forensic investigator with Irish roots, holds South African citizenship and has fought crime in the country for over three decades. He previously served as a SAPS reservist and worked in aviation security.


During earlier testimony on 10 February 2026, O'Sullivan denied ever being a spy, clarifying his past role in British Army counterterrorism focused on Irish-related threats. This context fueled accusations during the session, contributing to the tension before his walkout.
O'Sullivan's actions underscore challenges in managing voluntary witnesses in high-stakes inquiries.