Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has firmly denied any ties to criminal syndicates or misconduct in his role. This comes after damning allegations from KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who claimed Mchunu disbanded the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) to protect organised crime.
Speaking before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee, Mchunu addressed the accusations directly. He maintained that he had acted within the law and in the public interest.
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Mchunu Says He Is No Criminal and Has Nothing to Hide
In a candid testimony, Senzo Mchunu stated unequivocally:
“I have nothing to do with criminal syndicates. It will never happen.”
He added that Mkhwanazi “knows in his conscience” that Mchunu is not a criminal. Mchunu insisted his decision to disband the PKTT was lawful and based on administrative necessity—not criminal influence.
Senzo Mchunu Confirms Knowing Brown Mogotsi
Under tough questioning from Parliament, Mchunu admitted that he knows Brown Mogotsi, a North West businessman implicated in corruption claims. However, he denied ever having discussed the PKTT or any state operations with him.
“Yes, I know him… but I never spoke to Brown Mogotsi in this period, particularly about the disbandment.”
He further distanced himself from WhatsApp messages allegedly sent by Mogotsi, claiming he would meet Mchunu and Deputy Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya about the PKTT. Mchunu said he was unaware of such a meeting and denied any involvement.
Also read: Brown Mogotsi Breaks Silence After Police Raid His Home for his response to the allegations and latest developments.
Watch the Ad Hoc Committee Here
Why the Political Killings Task Team Was Disbanded
A central point in the controversy is the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT). Critics argue the decision weakened investigations into political crimes in KwaZulu-Natal. However, Mchunu insists the task team was always a temporary measure.
He cited a 2019 work study signed by former national commissioner Khehla Sithole that recommended integrating the PKTT’s work into formal units. Mchunu argued that extending the PKTT without proper structure would violate the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).
“You can’t have both a unit and a task team and be accountable in terms of public funds.”
Mchunu Accuses Commissioner Masemola of Withholding Key Information
Adding fuel to the political fire, Mchunu accused National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola of withholding information from Parliament. He claims Masemola failed to disclose that the PKTT was never formalised and had already been earmarked for replacement.
Mchunu referred to three meetings in November 2024 where the task team was discussed. He insists Masemola was present and fully aware of the move to disband it.
What Happens Next? Inquiry and More Testimonies Ahead
The Ad Hoc Committee has been granted an extension until 28 November 2025 to complete its inquiry. Former Police Minister Bheki Cele is also expected to testify later this month.
Meanwhile, public interest continues to rise as the case touches on governance, police accountability, and state transparency
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Still More Questions Than Answers
While Senzo Mchunu has denied wrongdoing, questions remain about how Brown Mogotsi allegedly accessed internal documents. The origins of leaked directives and alleged meetings continue to raise concerns.
For now, Mchunu remains on special leave, pending the outcome of the inquiry. As the hearings progress, South Africans are watching closely to see whether the truth confirms or contradicts the Police Minister’s version of events.
