By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has lifted the precautionary suspension of SA Police Services (SAPS) National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola. He will resume his full duties on Monday 19 October, 2026.
Masemola was placed on precautionary suspension in April by mutual agreement with the president after appearing in the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court to face allegations of contravening the PFMA in connection with the failures to adequately oversee a controversial SAPS health-services contract awarded to Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s Medicare24.
The charges were formally withdrawn last month after a National Prosecuting Authority review found there were no reasonable prospects of a successful prosecution.
The National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) Andy Mothibi instructed on 15 September 2026 that the charges be withdrawn. The Pretoria Magistrates Court subsequently formalised the withdrawal of the charges on 22 September 2026.
In a statement on Friday, 16 October 2026, Ramaphosa expressed confidence in Masemola and welcomed him back to his post.
“The president welcomes the National Police Commissioner on his return to his full duties, “said his spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya.
Ramaphosa also thanked Lieutenant-General Puleng Dimpane, who served as Acting National Commissioner during Masemola’s absence.
He praised Dimpane for steering the organisation during the interim period, saying she had served with distinction while ensuring continuity in the leadership of the police service.
Masemola’s return brings an end to months of uncertainty over the leadership of SAPS and restores the country’s most senior police officer to the position from which he oversees law enforcement operations nationwide.
Police Minister Firoz Cachalia welcomed the decision, saying Masemola’s return provides an opportunity for the leadership of the SAPS.
“The return of the National Commissioner provides an opportunity for the leadership of the SAPS to maintain focus on operational priorities and the ongoing work to build a professional, capable and trusted police service as per the Police Reset Agenda,” said Cachalia.