Khumalo: Hawks has double agent

The Madlanga Commission was told that the investigation into a cartel-linked Hawks officer was ongoing

- Nkateko Joseph Mabasa

Crime Intelligence boss Dumisani Khumalo told the Madlanga commission his team believes a Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks) member called “Zungu” was working with the ‘Big Five’ cartel after his contact details were found on murder suspect and alleged cartel leader Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala’s phone.

Khumalo said the investigation into “Zungu” was ongoing, adding this was the reason for the lack of communication regarding a takedown operation where the Hawks allegedly interfered with a large contingent and a helicopter during the arrest of Matlala’s co-accused, Katiso Molefe.

Khumalo told the commission that the intrusion at Molefe’s residence was a “clear obstruction of justice” by the Hawks, adding that it was not a surprise given what they know about cartel links to “Zungu”.

Crime intelligence is also investigating a “Mthethwa” — believed to be a family member of Molefe — for allegedly calling former Hawks boss Godfrey Lebeya to interfere in the takedown operation at the scene.

Senior Hawks members, including former divisional commissioner Patrick Mbotho, Brigadier Lesiba Mokoena and tactical team Captain Barry Kruger, have since been accused of orchestrating the interference. Khumalo also implicated Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) officers Johannes Mokgatle and Fanie Nkosi.