Parliament seeks extension for 'Big Five' crime syndicate investigation | SAPS Inquiry

The Ad Hoc Committee investigating allegations made by Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is set to extend its hearings, citing the complexity and breadth of the inquiry into a sophisticated crime syndicate operating within South Africa’s security forces.

Chaired by Soviet Lekganyane, the committee began its hearings on October 7, 2025, focusing on troubling claims involving a syndicate dubbed the “Big Five,” said to be deeply entrenched in law enforcement and intelligence structures.

At a media briefing on July 6, 2025, Mkhwanazi revealed the syndicate’s pervasive influence within security agencies, prompting Parliament to launch a thorough investigation. 

Since then, the committee has heard from nine witnesses, including high-profile figures such as suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, and others.

On Monday, during parliamentary proceedings, the committee’s legal representative presented a progress report and requested an extension to continue with hearings. 

The report outlined the committee’s methods, milestones, and challenges in processing evidence and public submissions.

“The committee commenced official work on August 5, following the Speaker of the National Assembly’s directive,” the report read.

“We adopted terms of reference that clearly outline the enquiry’s objectives and mandate. To date, we have engaged nine witnesses from October 7 to November 6, with several high-profile figures yet to appear due to scheduling conflicts or health reasons.”

The report also highlighted the widespread public response, noting that over 260,000 submissions were received regarding interference and corruption within the police and criminal justice system - a signal of systemic government failure.

Given the volume of evidence and the need for careful analysis, the committee believes it will not complete hearings before the end of November and thus requests a time extension.

“The public participation process remains active, and we still need to engage with citizens who submitted evidence,” the report stated. 

“We are committed to ensuring no aspect of the enquiry is rushed, maintaining transparency and thoroughness before compiling our conclusions and recommendations.”

ANC Member of Parliament Khusela Diko expressed conditional support for the extension but emphasized the need for clarity on outstanding witnesses.

“Officials like Lieutenant General Dumisani Khumalo have yet to be consulted, and the list of witnesses is not exhaustive,” Diko said. 

“While we support the request for an extension, we must discuss the duration to avoid an indefinite probe.”

Lekganyane confirmed plans to meet with the Speaker of Parliament on Wednesday to request the extension formally.

Opposition parties also voiced support. EFF MP Leigh-Ann Mathys expressed satisfaction with the report but sought clarity on the pending witnesses and the resources needed to expedite the process.

“How much additional time do we require for public participation once all evidence is finalized? We need informed estimates before deciding,” Mathys said. 

“We have also asked for more human resources to help manage the high volume of statements.” 

Lekganyane stated that the meeting with the speaker will determine the time needed to complete the work.

Notable upcoming witnesses include Mary De Haas, slated to testify following Monday, Cedric Nkabinde, expected Thursday and Friday, and Paul O’Sullivan and EMPD Chief Julius Mkhwanazi, whose appearances are yet to be scheduled. 

Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala is scheduled for November 26–28, with arrangements being made to facilitate his testimony from Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Services.

Committee members also discussed the logistics of addressing security concerns raised by witnesses. 

Parliament clarified its role is limited to transport and accommodation, not security provision.

ANC Chief Whip Mdumiseni Ntuli appealed to all parties to review and, if necessary, trim the extensive witness list to prevent protracted hearings and public fatigue.

“I propose we categorise witnesses based on the necessity of their appearance - some may submit affidavits instead of testifying,” Ntuli said. 

“Our work is crucial and highly publicised, but the longer it drags, the greater the risk of diminishing public interest.”

Since the inquiry’s inception, testimony has come from a cross-section of key officials, including former police ministers, national commissioners, and oversight agency heads, all of whom have revealed the complex layers of alleged corruption.

The committee is expected to continue its sessions over the coming weeks, determined to uncover the full extent of criminal infiltration threatening South Africa’s justice institutions.

“If the Speaker grants the extension, we will ensure that more witnesses are allowed to appear,” Lekganyane confirmed.

thabo.makwakwa@inl.co.za

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