In a nationally televised address, President Ramaphosa said the allegations against Mchunu “undermine our constitution, threaten national security, and call for an urgent and comprehensive investigation.” He added that the matter was of the utmost national importance and confirmed that a judicial commission, led by South Africa’s deputy chief justice, would be empowered to investigate all related individuals—including current and former police officials and members of the executive branch.

Law professor Firoz Cachalia was named as interim police minister. Ramaphosa's move follows growing pressure from civil society and within the African National Congress (ANC) to take decisive action against internal corruption.

Allegations Involve Sabotaged Task Force And Political Cover-ups

The accusations were brought to light by KwaZulu-Natal’s provincial police commissioner, General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. He testified that in 2018, a specialized task force was created to investigate political assassinations and criminal activity involving high-ranking individuals. The unit reportedly uncovered links between politicians, law enforcement, and drug cartels.

Mkhwanazi stated that Mchunu ordered the disbandment of the task force earlier in 2025, citing it as ineffective, even though many high-profile cases remained open. He revealed that 121 case dockets—including five with active arrest instructions—were removed from the unit without authorization and have since been stalled at police headquarters in Pretoria.

“The actions taken were deliberate and obstructive,” Mkhwanazi told reporters, alleging that the disbandment was part of an orchestrated effort to shield powerful individuals from prosecution.

Financial Ties To Businessman Under Scrutiny

Mchunu is also accused of maintaining ties to Vusimuzi Matlala, a businessman with a lucrative government contract who was arrested in May for attempted murder. According to Mkhwanazi, Matlala financially supported Mchunu’s political activities. He shared payment records and text messages purportedly showing direct communication and financial transactions between the two.

These revelations have sparked outrage across South Africa and raised concerns that criminal networks may have deeply infiltrated state security structures.

Mchunu Denies Wrongdoing, Says He Will Cooperate

In a public statement, Mchunu denied the allegations but said he respected the president’s decision and pledged full cooperation. “Honour and integrity are the virtues I personally subscribe to and which we all need to uphold,” he stated.

A senior ANC member, Mchunu was considered a potential candidate for party leadership ahead of the 2027 elective conference. Analysts say the scandal could have significant implications for Ramaphosa’s administration, which has pledged to combat corruption but has faced criticism for failing to root out internal wrongdoing.

With a national election looming in 2026, the scandal may further erode public trust in South Africa’s ruling elite and prompt calls for a broader overhaul of the criminal justice system.