WATCH | ‘Those who’ve done wrong will be dealt with’ – Ramaphosa on explosive cop claims

Cape Town – President Cyril Ramaphosa has promised swift action against individuals implicated in corruption, following explosive allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

Speaking to the media before departing Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where he had been attending the 17th BRICS summit, Ramaphosa said the allegations were of “serious concern” and would be addressed as a matter of urgency upon his return to South Africa.

“This is not a matter that we should not give attention to. It is a serious matter,” Ramaphosa said. “It has to do with the security of our people but also with our adherence to the rule of law.”

Mkhwanazi recently accused senior government officials, including Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Deputy National Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya, of political interference and undermining the work of the political killings task team in the province. The allegations have rocked the police establishment and sparked a nationwide debate about political meddling in law enforcement.

Ramaphosa said he intended to consult widely on the matter and would seek clarity from relevant parties before taking decisive action.

“It is a matter that I will be dealing with when I get home. I will need to look at it more closely and have a thorough discussion with a number of people and thereafter, there will be a clear way forward,” he said.

Reaffirming his commitment to the Constitution, the president said law enforcement officers play a vital role in ensuring safety and justice, and that no one was above the law.

“Those who have done wrong should be dealt with and should be dealt with thoroughly in terms of our Constitution and laws,” he said.

The allegations by Mkhwanazi come at a time when public trust in the South African Police Service remains fragile amid ongoing concerns about political interference and institutional integrity.

Ramaphosa’s response is expected to set the tone for how the government addresses internal dissent and corruption claims within the security cluster.