Oupa “Brown” Mogotsi, a businessman from the North West and alleged political fixer, has finally spoken out. His statement follows a high-profile police raid at his business premises in Mahikeng. The incident is part of an ongoing investigation involving serious allegations of political interference, corruption, and access to classified police information.
The raid and Mogotsi’s response have captured national attention, especially as he prepares to appear before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
Who is Brown Mogotsi, and Why Is He Under Investigation?
Brown Mogotsi is a prominent figure in the North West, known for his ties to political leaders. He has been repeatedly mentioned during the Madlanga Commission and an Ad Hoc Parliamentary Committee investigation. The probe centres on claims of police corruption and the alleged disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT).
Read more about how the Madlanga Commission is shaking SAPS to its core in our feature: SAPS Scandals Exposed: Madlanga Commission Rocks Police Credibility.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that the raid in Seweding Village, Mahikeng, forms part of a broader investigation into criminal networks and political interference.
Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said:
“This visit is part of an ongoing investigation that has already been discussed before the ad hoc committee and the Madlanga commission.”
Brown Mogotsi Breaks Silence: “Men Will Cry”
Speaking to Newzroom Afrika and eNCA, Brown Mogotsi broke his silence with a bold statement:
“I am going to the Madlanga Commission; a lot is coming. Kuzokhala amadoda (Men will cry).”
He added that he would explain why he informed controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala about the PKTT’s disbandment. This admission is significant. It suggests that Mogotsi may have had insider knowledge of police operations, something KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi previously alleged.
Mkhwanazi claimed that Mogotsi is an associate of suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, although Mchunu later clarified:
“Yes, I know him, but he is not my associate … he’s a comrade.”
Suspended Officers and Testimonies: A Growing Scandal
The unfolding investigation has already implicated high-ranking officials. Suspended Deputy Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya testified that Mogotsi contacted him in December 2024 about police corruption and warned him that Crime Intelligence was watching him.
Discover President Ramaphosa’s response to the growing health sector scandal in: Ramaphosa Admits to Knowing Alleged Tembisa Hospital Corruption Boss.
“He called me with strange information. I reported it to the National Commissioner,” Sibiya told the ad hoc committee.
These details support claims that Mogotsi had access to sensitive information. They also raise concerns about collusion between businesspeople and elements within law enforcement.
Legal Response and Fears for His Life
Following the raid, Mogotsi confirmed he had been served with papers to appear before the commission. He said his legal team was preparing the necessary documentation. In an interview with eNCA, he also claimed:
“I fear for my life.”
This statement adds to speculation that the case may involve powerful political figures and criminal syndicates. Mogotsi’s links to Matlala, who faces charges related to the Tembisa Hospital scandal, have further complicated the case.
What Happens Next?
Brown Mogotsi’s appearance before the Madlanga Commission is expected to reveal more. His testimony may expose further connections between political actors, corrupt networks, and the disbandment of the PKTT.
If proven, the allegations could lead to criminal prosecutions and deeper reforms within SAPS. The ANC has distanced itself from Mogotsi, stating he is not a current member.
Find out more about the latest bust involving law enforcement in our report: Three Germiston SAPS Officers Arrested for Alleged Drug Dealing.
The case of Brown Mogotsi reflects growing concern about the state of policing and political integrity in South Africa. As Brown Mogotsi breaks the silence, the nation awaits his testimony, which could bring major revelations and long-awaited accountability.
