President Cyril Ramaphosa has given reinstated National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola a clear mandate to root out corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS) as he prepares to resume his duties on Monday, 19 October.
According to Ramaphosa, Masemola’s return must be accompanied by renewed efforts to deal with corrupt officers and strengthen accountability within the police service.
The directive comes at a time when allegations of corruption and criminal networks within law enforcement have placed SAPS under intense public scrutiny, including testimony before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
Masemola returns after charges were withdrawn
Ramaphosa lifted Masemola’s precautionary suspension on Friday, following the withdrawal of criminal charges against the commissioner.
Masemola had been suspended in April after facing four charges relating to alleged contraventions of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). The case concerned his alleged failure to take appropriate steps to prevent irregularities linked to a police health-services contract awarded to Medicare24, a company associated with businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.
The National Prosecuting Authority instructed that the charges be withdrawn in September, and the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court formally withdrew them on 22 September.
Masemola is now expected to return to his full responsibilities, with the fight against corruption among the major challenges facing the police leadership.
Pressure to restore public confidence
The return comes amid growing concern over alleged misconduct involving police officers and claims of criminal infiltration within the criminal justice system.
The Madlanga Commission has heard allegations concerning relationships between law enforcement officials and individuals linked to organised crime. These developments have intensified calls for accountability and action against officers implicated in wrongdoing.
Masemola’s challenge will be to strengthen internal discipline, ensure that allegations of corruption are properly addressed and rebuild public confidence in the police service.
His return also follows a period in which Lieutenant-General Puleng Dimpane served as acting national commissioner.
The Presidency has welcomed Masemola’s return, while Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has said the leadership change provides an opportunity for SAPS to focus on operational priorities and the Police Reset Agenda, which emphasises professionalism, accountability and public trust.
