Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has formally requested special leave from President Cyril Ramaphosa as mounting allegations connect him to criminal networks and political interference in law enforcement.
The request follows serious claims made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused Mchunu of meddling in police operations and fostering ties with notorious figures linked to organized crime.
Mkhwanazi revealed that Mchunu orchestrated the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team — a crucial unit investigating politically motivated murders in KwaZulu-Natal — resulting in the unauthorized removal of 121 case files and stalling of key investigations.
Further accusations tie Mchunu to businessman Brown Mogotsi and Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, a tenderpreneur currently on trial for money laundering and attempted murder. According to Mkhwanazi, their financial backing bolstered Mchunu’s political ambitions.
Political parties including the Democratic Alliance, uMkhonto weSizwe Party, and the Economic Freedom Fighters have filed criminal complaints against Mchunu, accusing him of misleading Parliament about his relationship with Mogotsi. Mchunu initially denied any association but later admitted considering Mogotsi a “comrade” from North West province, deepening the controversy.
President Ramaphosa has condemned the allegations as a “grave national security concern” and pledged swift action. With a decision on Mchunu’s leave and potential resignation expected imminently, the unfolding scandal threatens to further undermine public confidence in South Africa’s law enforcement leadership.
