Suspended crime Intel head, Maj-Gen. Richard Shibiri, is expected to testify at the Madlanga Commission on Wednesday.
Image: Kamogelo Moichela / IOL News
Suspended organised crime unit head Richard Shibiri returns to the witness stand at the Madlanga Commission on Wednesday, facing another round of intense questioning over allegations linking him to criminal cartels.
Shibiri is expected to be cross-examined on claims that he maintained relationships with figures at the centre of organised crime networks while leading sensitive police investigations.
The commission is also probing allegations that he interfered in high-profile murder cases, raising serious questions about the integrity of elite crime-fighting units.
His testimony last week drew sharp attention after his relationship with controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala surfaced during proceedings.
Shibiri told the commission that Matlala once gave him a personal loan — a debt he insisted was fully repaid.
But the disclosure has intensified scrutiny of the suspended officer, who was sidelined after earlier testimony suggested he may have been on the payroll of alleged crime bosses.
The commission is expected to push for clarity on the nature of those relationships, how money changed hands, and whether criminal syndicates gained influence over police investigations.
Shibiri also denied knowing social media blogger Musa Khawula.
kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za
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