Ex-Police Minister Bheki Cele silent as criminal allegations mount

Former Police Minister Bheki Cele remains tight-lipped as the controversy and scandals surrounding allegations of his collusion between high-ranking law enforcement officials and criminal syndicates continue to grip the country.

KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s explosive claims suggesting a disturbing nexus between law enforcement and organised crime. 

Mkhwanazi’s allegations implicate several senior officials, including deputy commissioner Shadrack Sibiya, and Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, in a web of corruption that threatens to undermine the integrity of South Africa’s policing institutions.

Adding fuel to the fire, Mkhwanazi accused certain law enforcement agencies of collaborating with criminal syndicates involved in drug trafficking, the murders of prominent figures, and political assassinations.

He further alleged that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) had refused to sign warrants for the arrest of top police officials and politicians linked to this sprawling criminal network, raising serious questions about the integrity of the country’s justice system.

Amid the turmoil, Bheki Cele has chosen to remain silent. When approached by IOL on Wednesday, Cele declined to comment on the allegations, asserting that “the president is dealing with the matter” and that the public should await further developments.

“I won’t say anything; the president is handling this,” Cele stated, refusing to be drawn into speculation.

Asked whether he was concerned about his reputation or consulting legal counsel, Cele reiterated that only Ramaphosa could speak, emphasising the government's focus on managing the crisis.

The allegations have prompted urgent investigations by parliamentary committees. 

On Wednesday, National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza refused to allow a debate on Mkhwanazi’s remarks but appointed three committees to conduct a swift inquiry into the security concerns raised.

Meanwhile, Cele’s recent activities continue to be under scrutiny.

It was reported that he stayed in a luxury penthouse suite owned by controversial businessman Matlala just days before Matlala’s company was awarded a R360 million South African Police Service (SAPS) health services tender. 

According to media reports, the stay occurred at The Capital Menlyn Maine in Pretoria in January - a detail that raises eyebrows given Matlala’s reputation and ongoing legal troubles, including attempted murder charges and links to corruption investigations.

On Wednesday, Mchunu issued a statement denying any links to Matlala in response to the allegations.

“The Minister has never met Mr. Matlala, has never spoken to him, nor has the Minister ever requested or received anything from him.

“The Minister did, however, initiate a review of the SAPS tender awarded to him when suspicions of possible wrongdoing surfaced. It was the same tender that has since been terminated,” read the statement.

General Sibiya, on Sunday, denied any links to organised crime, dismissing Mkhwanazi's claims.

The unfolding allegations have shadowed South Africa’s law enforcement and judicial institutions. 

The NPA, which is responsible for prosecuting crimes, has been accused of signing warrants for arrests of officials involved in organised crime, a claim that undermines public confidence in the system.

When approached for clarification, NPA spokesperson Mthunzi Mhaga refused to disclose the number of warrants pending nationwide, citing the need for patience as President Ramaphosa’s administration addresses the crisis. 

“President Ramaphosa has spoken on this issue, and it would be appropriate to allow him the necessary space and time to deal with it,” Mhaga stated.

thabo.makwakwa@inl.co.za

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