Ramaphosa Suspends Police Minister Amid Explosive Crime Syndicate Allegations

By iNewsAfrica Staff Reporter

Johannesburg, South Africa – July 14, 2025 — In a stunning political shake-up, President Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended South Africa’s Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu, following explosive allegations linking him to organized crime networks and obstructing critical law enforcement operations.

The move comes after KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Gen. Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi publicly accused Mchunu of colluding with criminal syndicates, derailing investigations into politically motivated killings, and dismantling a specialist task force probing police corruption. Mchunu has categorically denied all allegations.

In a nationally televised address, Ramaphosa announced the establishment of a judicial commission of inquiry to probe the claims and assess whether any senior officials were complicit in shielding criminals for political or financial gain. The commission will be led by retired Justice Thandi Modise and supported by the State Security Agency, the National Prosecuting Authority, and civil oversight bodies.

“South Africa cannot afford a crisis of confidence in its law enforcement institutions,” Ramaphosa stated. “This investigation will be thorough, transparent, and uncompromising.”

Acting Police Minister Appointed

While the inquiry proceeds, respected constitutional law scholar Firoz Cachalia has been appointed Acting Minister of Police. Cachalia, known for his legal acumen and previous anti-corruption work, vowed to restore trust in the department.

The allegations sent shockwaves across the political landscape, drawing fierce criticism from opposition leaders and civil society organizations. The Democratic Alliance and Economic Freedom Fighters both called for Mchunu’s outright dismissal and the expansion of the inquiry to include parliamentary oversight.

Deepening Crime Crisis

This scandal unfolds against the backdrop of a worsening national crime wave. With murder, kidnapping, and organized crime on the rise, South Africans have grown increasingly frustrated with perceived inaction by police leadership. Experts estimate crime now costs the country as much as 10% of its GDP annually.

Political analysts warn the case could test the unity of the ANC’s fragile governing coalition, as Ramaphosa walks a tightrope between fighting corruption and maintaining internal party stability.

What’s Next?

The judicial commission has been given 90 days to deliver preliminary findings. If the allegations are substantiated, Mchunu could face criminal charges and a potential ban from public office.

As the inquiry gets underway, South Africans—and the world—will be watching closely to see whether this moment signals a turning point in the country’s battle against corruption in high places.

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