Suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu handed over his electronic devices to investigators on Friday morning.
This forms part of an ongoing probe into alleged corruption and interference in South Africa’s justice system.
Mchunu’s newly appointed spokesperson, Sthembiso Mshengu, confirmed that the former minister had surrendered his devices to the police.
Mshengu, who took up the role this week, will handle all media enquiries related to the Madlanga Commission.
Mchunu Faces Allegations of Interference and Corruption
Mchunu was placed on special leave after KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi accused him of obstructing criminal investigations to shield individuals linked to organised crime and senior police officials.
In a July media briefing, Mkhwanazi claimed that Mchunu ordered the disbandment of the Political Task Team, which investigated political killings and organised crime in KwaZulu-Natal.
He said Mchunu issued a directive in December 2024 to dissolve the unit under pressure from his associates, including businessman Vuzimusi “Cat” Matlala and Brown Mogotsi.
Matlala, who was arrested for attempted murder, allegedly secured a R360 million police contract in 2024 and reportedly financed Mchunu’s political activities alongside Mogotsi.
Mkhwanazi also accused senior officers of protecting drug cartel-linked officials and stalling murder investigations involving high-profile entertainment figures.
Ramaphosa Orders Inquiry
President Cyril Ramaphosa responded to the allegations by establishing the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry to investigate the claims against Mchunu.
He also appointed Professor Firoz Cachalia as acting police minister during Mchunu’s suspension.
Mchunu’s conduct remains under scrutiny before both the Madlanga Commission and Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee.
The committees are probing allegations of corruption, criminal conduct and interference in justice processes.
At the centre of the investigations is Mchunu’s controversial decision to disband the Political Killings Task Team, a move he defended before Parliament.
Mchunu told the committee that the unit had “outlived its purpose” and no longer served a functional role. Both inquiries are still ongoing.
