Masemola: “Mchunu Was Angry Over Arrests in Councillor Mabhida Murder Case”
General Masemola poking PTTK interference to Mchunu. (Supplied)
by Mathipa Phishego
National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has told the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry that suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu reacted with anger after police arrested two suspects linked to the killing of Mandeni councillor Phendukani Mabhida.
Masemola described the incident as unprecedented in his career, saying it was the first time he had seen a police minister express frustration at officers for diligently carrying out their duties.
According to Masemola, members of the Public Order Policing (POP) division had successfully tracked down and apprehended the two suspects accused of murdering Mabhida, who was gunned down in Mandeni, KwaZulu-Natal.
Instead of commending the breakthrough, Mchunu allegedly became angry. “It was the first time I saw a minister angry at the police for doing their work,” Masemola testified.
The case file was later transferred to the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT), a specialised unit established to investigate political assassinations in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. Masemola said this move appeared to further infuriate Mchunu, who had already clashed with SAPS leadership over operational decisions.
The PKTT itself has been at the centre of controversy, after revelations that Mchunu ordered its disbandment in December, 31, 2024. A move Masemola and KwaZulu-Natal Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi have both described as political interference in policing operations.
Madlanga Commission is probing systemic failures within SAPS, including allegations of ministerial overreach and the government’s handling of political assassinations. KwaZulu-Natal remains South Africa’s deadliest hotspot for political killings, with councillors, local leaders, and whistle-blowers frequently targeted.
Masemola’s testimony adds to mounting claims that Mchunu not only interfered in operational policing matters, but also sought to influence the handling of politically sensitive cases. Mchunu, who is currently on leave of absence, has faced growing criticism for his role in disbanding the task team and for allegedly undermining police independence.
The commission is expected to deliver its findings and recommendations in the coming months, with the future of specialised policing units like the PKTT at stake.
