Is Shadrack Sibiya off the hook after not returning to the hot seat at Madlanga?

By Mapaballo Borotho

The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has confirmed that suspended Deputy National Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya will not be recalled to testify.
Sibiya previously spent nearly a week before the commission facing allegations of corruption, interference in police operations and links to criminal networks.
The commission is now entering its final week of hearings before compiling its second interim report for the President.

The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has confirmed its decision not to recall suspended Deputy National Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya for further testimony relating to allegations of corruption within the criminal justice system.

Commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels confirmed on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, that evidence leaders no longer intend to call Sibiya back to testify.

“The Commission can confirm that it has informed Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya that the evidence leaders presently do not intend to recall him for further oral evidence,” said Michaels.

Sibiya spent close to a week testifying before the commission in February 2026, where he faced extensive questioning over allegations of corruption, collusion with criminal networks and interference in police operations.

He has been accused of influencing the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) and allegedly protecting underworld figures linked to the so-called “Big 5” cartel, including Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.

Witnesses also alleged that Sibiya had close ties to controversial figures such as Katiso “KT” Molefe and was involved in networks of protection, influence and corruption within SAPS.

Additional testimony placed him at the centre of alleged internal battles and plots within the police service.

Sibiya has denied all allegations against him, claiming he is the target of a coordinated campaign aimed at destroying his reputation and career.

Many have speculated that the decision not to recall Sibiya could signal the possibility of his arrest, similar to other witnesses who were arrested after concluding their testimony before the commission.

However, police have not confirmed any such plans involving Sibiya.

This week marks the commission’s final round of hearings before it adjourns to compile its second interim report, which is expected to be handed to the President at the end of May.