Madlanga Commission Faces Pressure To Uncover The Big 5 Cartel’s State Links

The Madlanga Commission’s investigation into alleged criminal networks operating within South Africa’s law enforcement and political structures has reached a significant point, with fresh attention turning to the late taxi boss Jotham “King Mswazi” Msibi and his reported connections to influential figures.

Evidence leader Advocate Matthew Chaskalson previously presented WhatsApp records recovered from Msibi’s cellphone, placing the alleged activities of the so-called Big Five cartel under renewed scrutiny. The group has been linked in testimony to allegations involving contract killings, extortion, tender manipulation, money laundering and attempts to obtain sophisticated surveillance equipment.

One of the most consequential developments is the commission’s decision to issue a Regulation 10(6) notice to Bejani Chauke, a former political adviser to President Cyril Ramaphosa. The notice, issued on October 27, requires Chauke to provide information about his relationship and WhatsApp exchanges with Msibi, reportedly dating from 2022 and 2023.

The notice does not amount to a criminal charge or a finding of wrongdoing. However, it places questions about the relationship before the commission and creates an opportunity for Chauke to account for the communications. He has not yet testified before the inquiry.

The wider investigation has also raised questions about alleged links between the cartel and serving or former police officials. Witness B, whose identity is protected, previously described threats directed at law enforcement officers investigating the group, saying they were told to “take the bribe or die” while pursuing matters connected to the killing of Armand Swart.

Katiso “KT” Molefe has also featured prominently in the commission’s evidence. WhatsApp material reportedly showed discussions involving Msibi, Molefe and other individuals about obtaining an interception device commonly known as a “grabber”. Molefe has not testified before the commission and remains presumed innocent.

The inquiry is now facing wider demands to examine how alleged criminal networks may have gained access to state institutions, procurement processes and senior police structures. Questions have also been raised about the roles of other businessmen and politically connected individuals mentioned in evidence.

Retired Justice Mbuyiseni Madlanga has warned that South Africa cannot surrender its constitutional inheritance to people who treat public institutions as personal property.

For the commission, the challenge is to follow the evidence wherever it leads, establish what can be proven and ensure that allegations against powerful individuals receive proper scrutiny. Its credibility will depend not on the prominence of the names involved, but on whether the investigation produces answers supported by evidence.

Source: https://x.com/iol/status/2116894277443920382?s=46

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