By Duncan Mnisi
Pretoria, Gauteng – The controversy over the handling of police investigation files linked to political violence in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) has taken a new turn in Pretoria’s North Gauteng High Court. Major-General Shadrack Sibiya, who was suspended from his position, is challenging his suspension and the fate of the sensitive dockets.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that the original 121 dockets, which contain details of multiple murder cases and other serious crimes, remain with the KZN Political Killings Task Team. Copies of these files will be provided to the Madlanga Commission, tasked with investigating political violence in the province, to aid its inquiries.
The case has drawn attention because of allegations by KZN Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused Sibiya of unlawfully disbanding the task team and removing the dockets. Sibiya’s lawyer argued in court that his client cannot decide what happens to the files, as he is currently suspended and outside operational duties.
Meanwhile, Sibiya has agreed to appear before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee next week on Wednesday, which is probing claims of police interference and corruption involving the disbandment of the task team. He expressed readiness to speak publicly at the appropriate time.
The dispute has centered on whether the dockets, which include evidence related to 107 murder cases, should be handed over entirely to the commission or kept intact with SAPS. Critics, including political figures like President Cyril Ramaphosa and acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia, argued that the files should remain with the Madlanga Commission to ensure justice.
Supporters of the police say the files have a proven track record, with investigations resulting in numerous convictions since 2018, including high-profile political killings. They emphasize the importance of continuing these investigations without delay.
The court proceedings highlight the ongoing power struggle within the police force and the political landscape of KZN. As the legal process unfolds, all parties agree on one thing: the need for justice and accountability in addressing political violence in the region.
