National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola is currently at the center of an unprecedented crisis within South Africa’s law enforcement leadership. On July 9, 2025, Masemola addressed the public from Vanderbijlpark, stating he is prepared to brief President Cyril Ramaphosa about the escalating turmoil in the South African Police Service (SAPS). He described the current situation as “unprecedented and concerning,” emphasizing the need for strong intervention to restore stability. He reiterated his readiness to meet the president as soon as summoned[1].
The latest developments follow explosive allegations by provincial commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused senior police and government officials of interference in police operations. Mkhwanazi implicated Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and his associate in a corruption scandal involving a R360 million tender. In May 2025, Masemola annulled the contract in question, asserting that the company involved should not have advanced past the initial bidding stage[1].
Recent media speculation suggested that Masemola faced imminent arrest over his alleged role in the irregular procurement of Crime Intelligence buildings worth more than R120 million. However, the Police Ministry and the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) have denied that any arrest warrant for Masemola exists or is planned, urging the public and media to avoid further speculation which could destabilize the SAPS[3]. Despite sensational reports and social media debate, authorities maintain that no official action is pending against him at this time[3].
Despite the controversy, Masemola has continued to focus on police operations and human resource initiatives. Notably, he announced the upcoming recruitment of 5,500 new police trainees before the end of June 2025 and highlighted recent successes by SAPS, such as thousands of arrests for various crimes and the confiscation of illegal firearms and hijacked vehicles[5]. Masemola also recently made key appointments to senior leadership roles, including the historic appointment of the first female Deputy National Commissioner for Policing, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili[4].
Masemola reaffirmed the SAPS’s commitment to fighting organized crime and supporting the community, even as he awaits further communication from President Ramaphosa regarding the ongoing internal probe and calls for unity within the force[1][7].
References
- [1] SAPS in Crisis: Masemola responds to Mkhwanazi bombshell, appeals for stability
- [3] No arrest warrant for Police Commissioner Masemola, says Police Ministry
- [4] General Masemola announces appointments of high-ranking cops
- [5] National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola – Media briefing on Human Resources
- [7] Crimefighting continues in face of ‘grave national security concern’