JOHANNESBURG – President Cyril Ramaphosa has authorised the formation of a commission of inquiry into allegations made against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, stating it is critical to restoring public trust in South Africa’s law enforcement institutions.
The decision comes days after KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi accused high-ranking officials, including Mchunu, of ties to criminal networks believed to have infiltrated state intelligence and policing structures.
Addressing the nation on Sunday, Ramaphosa confirmed that Mchunu has been placed on a leave of absence. In his weekly newsletter on Monday, the President said the commission will work independently to assess the allegations and provide recommendations on potential criminal charges, disciplinary actions, and institutional reform.
Ramaphosa said the inquiry is necessary to ensure that recent gains made in cleaning up law enforcement agencies are not undone.
“The commission must assess any prima facie evidence involving individuals currently working within law enforcement or intelligence. It must also make recommendations on their employment status where applicable, including whether suspensions are necessary pending further investigation,” he said.
The probe is also expected to examine the wider influence of organised crime on key state institutions, with a focus on rooting out syndicate-linked officials.
Ramaphosa urged South Africans to cooperate with the inquiry, adding that rebuilding the country’s policing and security services remains a national priority.
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