Johannesburg – Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has paid tribute to suspended provincial traffic police chief inspector Samuel Mashaba following his death at Netcare Milpark Hospital, where he was receiving medical care.
Mashaba died on Tuesday, 13 October, while suspended from his position following his testimony before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry in June.
Lesufi conveyed the provincial government’s condolences to Mashaba’s family, colleagues in the Gauteng Traffic Police and the wider law enforcement community.
“On behalf of the Gauteng government, I convey our deepest condolences to the Mashaba family following the passing of chief inspector Samuel Mashaba,” Lesufi said.
“We also extend our condolences to his colleagues in the Gauteng traffic police and the broader law enforcement fraternity, who are mourning the loss of a dedicated colleague.”
The premier wished the family strength and comfort as they mourned.
MEDIA STATEMENT | The @GautengProvince, through the @GP_CommSafety, announces with deep sadness the passing of Gauteng Traffic Police Chief Inspector Samuel Mashaba, who passed away today, 13 October 2026,
at Milpark Hospital while receiving medical care. https://t.co/iizKwLpoQU— Gauteng Provincial Gov (@GautengProvince) October 13, 2026
The government’s tribute comes against the backdrop of scrutiny surrounding Mashaba’s conduct while serving as the province’s traffic police chief.
Mashaba’s testimony before Madlanga Commission
Mashaba appeared before the commission in June to answer questions about his role in a major drug seizure in Aeroton, south of Johannesburg, in July 2021.
During the operation, law enforcement officers seized more than 715kg of cocaine with an estimated street value of R300 million.
His testimony raised questions about his handling of information related to the drugs and his interactions with businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s associate, Nkosana Nku, among other issues examined by the inquiry.
Following his appearance, Mashaba was placed on precautionary suspension pending a formal disciplinary process.
The government acknowledged that the circumstances surrounding his suspension and commission appearance formed part of an ongoing public process.
WATCH | Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s office has confirmed the passing of Gauteng Traffic Police Chief Inspector Samuel Mashaba. More news available on https://t.co/N9V5BF4stZ. https://t.co/NCG77huF7z
— SABC News (@SABCNews) October 13, 2026
Mashaba’s death comes as the commission continues to examine allegations of criminality, political interference and corruption within South Africa’s criminal justice system.
The cause of his death had not been publicly disclosed in the reports available at the time of publication.
The provincial government has not indicated how Mashaba’s death will affect any outstanding disciplinary processes.
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Compiled by Glaan Sibuyi
