Three high-profile names remain sealed as Lt-Gen. Dumisani Khumalo tells the Madlanga Commission that Katiso Molefe and controversial businessman, Vusimuzi “Cat” Molefe are part of the Big 5 cartel dealing with drugs, tender fraud, contract killings and cross-border hijackings.

Khumalo told the commission on Monday that the cartel has tapped into the political space and is working with politicians for personal benefit.

“The Big Five has already penetrated the political sphere and there are documented cases of high-profile connections in the political arena,” Khumalo said, adding that senior politicians are alleged to be complicit in the syndicate operations.

Khumalo warned that the cartel’s primary objective is to remain operational “for as long as possible,” and is actively securing influence by forging alliances with politicians, law enforcement officials, and business leaders.

Using symbolic imagery of skulls to represent three unnamed cartel members, Khumalo painted a grim picture of a country at risk of descending into lawlessness if these networks remain unchecked.

“This agenda will render the nation lawless,” he cautioned.

The cartel allegedly recruits members based on expertise in specific illicit trades, forming compact syndicates of between two and 12 individuals.

While drugs remain its primary commodity, the syndicate is also implicated in extortion and contract killings tied to its narcotics operations.

Khumalo is expected to continue his testimony on Tuesday.

kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za

IOL Politics

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