In a startling claim that has sent ripples through South Africa’s police force and the public, Deputy National Commissioner for Crime Detection, Shadrack Sibiya, has alleged that KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi was notably inactive in the initial stages of the investigation into the murder of popular rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes.
Sibiya’s remarks suggest a significant reluctance or unwillingness on Mkhwanazi’s part to pursue the case vigorously, forcing Sibiya himself to push for the arrest of those involved.
According to Sibiya, General Mkhwanazi “was not doing anything” regarding the AKA matter, indicating a perceived lack of initiative or progress from Mkhwanazi’s side. Sibiya explicitly stated that he “had to force that these criminals be arrested,” highlighting his active role in pushing for the investigation’s advancement. He further elaborated that he “pushed for the arrest of AKA,” and strikingly, claimed that Mkhwanazi “didn’t want to arrest.”
These comments paint a picture of internal discord or differing approaches within the police hierarchy concerning a high-profile murder case that has gripped the nation. While General Mkhwanazi has publicly affirmed the police’s commitment to the AKA investigation and announced significant breakthroughs, including arrests and the identification of AKA as the main target, Sibiya’s claims introduce a contrasting narrative.
Mkhwanazi has previously stated that the police adopted a deliberate strategy to keep details under wraps to ensure the integrity of the investigation—a stance that might be seen as conflicting with Sibiya’s assertion of inaction.
The AKA murder case, which also saw the death of his friend and business partner Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane, has been a complex and sensitive investigation. Police have arrested several suspects, with details emerging about an elaborate assassination plot, including spotters, gunmen, and organisers. Mkhwanazi has been at the forefront of these announcements, detailing how the suspects were tracked and apprehended.
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However, Sibiya’s accusations raise questions about the internal dynamics of the investigation and whether there were initial hesitations or obstacles that delayed progress. Such claims, particularly from a senior officer, could potentially impact public confidence in the police’s handling of the case.
Ministerial interference and drug syndicates
This dramatic development comes in the wake of another explosive revelation. In an earlier press conference, Mkhwanazi accused Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu of undermining serious crime investigations and enabling organised crime syndicates to infiltrate the justice system.
The Commissioner came out guns blazing towards his law enforcement colleagues. He accuses politicians, the judiciary, and the NPA of aiding and abetting criminals. Mkhwanazi says he is prepared to die in the fight against crime.
In case you missed it: Police Minister Senzo Mchunu Implicated as Mkhwanazi Unmasks Drug Syndicate Ties to Justice System
As the AKA case continues to dominate national headlines, these new allegations expose deep rifts in leadership and decision-making at the highest levels of the SAPS.
