Madlanga Commission suspends proceedings as crime intelligence chief falls ill

Pretoria – The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into corruption within South Africa’s criminal justice system was adjourned on Tuesday, October 1, 2025, after Lieutenant General Dumisani Khumalo, head of the South African Police Service’s Crime Intelligence Division, reported feeling unwell.

Khumalo, who had been testifying for two consecutive days, had provided detailed accounts of syndicates allegedly infiltrating both the police and political structures.

His testimony included references to the so-called ‘Big 5’ cartel, which is believed to maintain links with influential power networks.

[JUST IN] The Madlanga Commission has been adjourned until further notice. Chairperson Mbuyiseli Madlanga says Crime Intelligence boss Dumisani Khumalo is too ill to testify. #MadlangaCommision pic.twitter.com/xKTWYLy3RU

— Jacaranda FM Newswatch (@JacaNewswatch) October 1, 2025

Commission Chairperson Mbuyiseli Madlanga confirmed the adjournment, stating that proceedings would resume at a later date once Khumalo’s health permits.

“He is not well. We as the commission have decided not to sit today,” he said.

This marks the second recent interruption to the commission’s work.

Officials assured the public that updates on the schedule for resumption would be provided in due course.

#MadlangaCommission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels says the Commission will soon announce when they’ll resume with Khumalo’s testimony.

He states “there is nothing out of the ordinary” regarding Khumalo falling ill.

Khumalo has been in the midst of unpacking WhatsApp messages… https://t.co/spmrFTeWWY pic.twitter.com/5ABybwyQ4A

— Kaya News (@KayaNews) October 1, 2025

The inquiry continues to investigate allegations of systemic corruption, which have drawn national attention and heightened scrutiny of South Africa’s law enforcement and political institutions.

The commission has faced multiple delays in recent weeks, raising concerns about the pace at which critical testimonies are being heard, particularly from high-ranking officials implicated in corruption networks.