Controversial businessman Brown Mogotsi is set to testify at the ongoing Mkhwanazi Inquiry, scheduled for 18–20 November 2025. His appearance follows growing allegations linking him to criminal networks operating within the police service.
The Ad Hoc Parliamentary Committee, investigating interference in policing and intelligence structures, confirmed Mogotsi’s inclusion in its updated witness list. The inquiry is examining claims made by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who first raised concerns in July.
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Mogotsi’s testimony is expected to provide key insights into allegations that he acted as a civilian go-between for criminal syndicates and senior law enforcement officials. Notably, he was never registered as an official police informant — a point emphasised by Commissioner Mkhwanazi during previous testimony.
“He is not a registered source in SAPS intelligence, but he had access to everything,” Mkhwanazi told the Madlanga Commission.
Suspended Inspector-General Refuses to Cooperate
In a surprising development, Imtiaz Fazel, South Africa’s suspended Inspector-General of Intelligence, has refused to appear before the inquiry. Despite being flagged as a vital witness, Fazel has declined to provide either oral testimony or a written affidavit.
This refusal has sparked concern within Parliament, especially given Fazel’s role in overseeing intelligence structures during the period under investigation. Chief Evidence Leader Advocate Norman Arendse SC warned MPs that Fazel’s non-cooperation could undermine the inquiry’s progress.
“The fact that Fazel has been suspended means that it is crucial that he appear before the inquiry,” said Arendse.
The committee is now weighing legal options, including issuing subpoenas to compel his attendance.
Brown Mogotsi’s Role Under Scrutiny
Brown Mogotsi’s name surfaced repeatedly during early testimony. Several witnesses linked him to attempts to derail sensitive investigations, including the disbanding of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) in December 2024.
It’s alleged that Mogotsi had access to internal SAPS documentation, such as occurrence books and crime-intelligence briefings. These were reportedly shared with police leaders through unofficial channels — a major breach of protocol.
His ties to suspended Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu and alleged involvement in the appointment of compromised officers will likely be a central focus of his testimony. Mogotsi has previously denied wrongdoing and has requested an extension to prepare a response.
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For context, Mkhwanazi accused Mchunu of being part of a syndicate that influenced operational decisions within SAPS. News24 reports that 121 criminal dockets were rerouted under suspicious circumstances.
Inquiry Timeline and Key Witnesses
The Mkhwanazi Inquiry will conclude its public hearings on 28 November 2025. Due to time constraints, the committee has reduced the original list of 30 witnesses. Several will submit affidavits instead of appearing in person.
Other key witnesses include:
- Cedrick Nkabinde, Mchunu’s Chief of Staff (testifying 13–14 November)
- Lt. Gen. Lineo Nkhuoa, on healthcare tenders (25–26 November)
- SAPS CFO Puleng Dimpane, on police budgets (27–28 November)
The committee will also revisit Mkhwanazi’s earlier statements about former minister Bheki Cele. Mkhwanazi is expected to clarify these comments on 12 November.
What’s at Stake for South Africa
This inquiry is more than a political showdown, it touches on national security, policing credibility, and public trust. If allegations against Mogotsi and others are substantiated, they could expose a deeper network of interference in the criminal justice system.
Related: Bheki Cele Denies Knowing Mogotsi, Confirms Ties to Matlala.
As Brown Mogotsi prepares to testify, all eyes will be on how his statements align with prior claims made by whistle-blowers and high-ranking SAPS officials. The refusal by the Inspector-General of Intelligence to participate only adds urgency to the hearings.
For readers following developments in governance, police reform, and accountability, this inquiry is a pivotal moment for South Africa’s democracy.
