The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry held its 129th day of public hearings on Tuesday, 30 June 2026, at the Brigitte Mabandla Justice College in Pretoria to examine systemic corruption within South Africa’s law enforcement and legal institutions. Chaired by retired acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, the inquiry continues to probe long-standing allegations of criminality and political interference affecting the judiciary, police, and intelligence structures.
Addressing Systemic Failures And Digital Modernisation
Anton du Plessis, CEO of Business Against Crime, featured prominently in the proceedings, focusing on the failure of the South African criminal justice system to counter organised crime syndicates. Du Plessis argued that state institutions have failed to adopt modern digital technologies required to outpace evolving criminal operations.
Criminals have exploited weaknesses in SA’s justice system for years, and reform should be judged by convictions, recovered assets and protected witnesses – not promises.
His testimony highlighted the disconnect between current legislative frameworks and the technological capabilities of private criminal networks. Providing this capacity for digital oversight remains a core recommendation for the commission as it seeks to professionalise the investigative arms of the state.
Ongoing Inquiries Into Historical Infiltration
The commission continues to scrutinize evidence presented by private investigator Paul O’Sullivan regarding the depth of criminal influence in the police service. O’Sullivan alleged that the infiltration of these structures is institutionalised and long-standing, claiming that senior leaders, including KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lt-Gen. Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, were aware of these systemic issues well before their public emergence in July 2025.
These revelations form part of the broader portfolio established by President Cyril Ramaphosa following Mkhwanazi’s initial concerns regarding compromised law enforcement. The commission is expected to continue hearing from technical experts and security analysts as it compiles its final findings on the integrity of the country’s protective services.
The commission will resume its hearings tomorrow to further examine the evidence submitted by security sector witnesses.