By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Madlanga commission of inquiry into criminality, political interference and corruption in the justice system have been halted and will resume on October 13.
This was confirmed by Commissioner Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga on Wednesday morning.
The hearings were stopped after the fifth witness, SAPS head of crime intelligence Lt-Gen Dumisani Khumalo, became ill shortly after arriving at the Brigitte Mabandla Justice College in Pretoria.
“He is not well. We as the commission have decided not to sit today,” Madlanga said.
The Commission will take a scheduled break from 6 to 10 October 2025 due to the unavailability of Commissioner Sesi Baloyi, who will be attending to her duties as a member of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), added Madlanga.
Over the two days, Khumalo has effectively alleged that a drug cartel, known as the Big Five, has infiltrated political and policing circles.
Meanwhile, National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola assured South Africans that Khumalo is in good spirits and receiving medical attention.
National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said Khumalo is receiving the best medical care after feeling unwell.
“The General felt unwell after arriving at the Brigitte Mabandla Justice College, where he was due to continue with his testimony. General Masemola is in contact with the senior officer and confirms that he is in good spirits and following the health advice of his physician.
“The General’s health is receiving priority, and the Madlanga Commission will be kept abreast of all developments pertaining to his condition as well as when he will be available to continue with his testimony, “Mathe said.
The commission, chaired by Justice Madlanga, is sitting with two commissioners, has a six-month deadline to deliver a report. The Commission is now in its third week.