Suspended police minister Senzo Mchunu handed over his electronic devices to authorities on Friday morning.

This forms part of ongoing investigations into alleged corruption and interference in the justice system.

According to reports, Mchunu’s spokesperson, Sthembiso Mshengu, confirmed that Mchunu handed his devices to the police. 

Mshengu was appointed this week as Mchunu’s spokesperson to manage media enquiries pertaining to the Madlanga Commission. 

Mchunu was placed on special leave after KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, accused him of interfering in high-profile criminal investigations to protect individuals linked to crime syndicates and senior police officials.

During a media briefing in July, Mkhwanazi claimed that Mchunu had ordered the disbandment of the Political Task Team investigating political killings and organised crime in the province. 

He alleged that Mchunu issued a directive in December 2024 to shut down the team under pressure from his associates, including controversial businessman Vuzimusi “Cat” Matlala – who has been arrested for attempted murder – and Brown Mogotsi.

According to Mkhwanazi, Matlala was awarded a R360 million police contract in 2024 and had helped fund Mchunu’s political activities along with Mogotsi. 

He also claimed that senior police officials linked to drug cartels were stalling investigations into the murders of several well-known entertainment figures.

In response, President Cyril Ramaphosa established the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry to investigate the allegations. 

He also appointed Professor Firoz Cachalia as acting police minister.

Mchunu’s name has featured prominently before both the Madlanga Commission and the Parliament Ad Hoc Committee, which are investigating the allegations against him, including corruption, criminal conduct and interference in the justice system.

Topping the agenda is his decision to disband the Political Killings Task Team, which he argued had outlived its purpose.

Appearing before the committee, Mchunu defended his decision, saying the team no longer served any functional role.

Both the commission and the ad hoc committee are continuing their investigations.

Mchunu, who is a member of the ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) and National Working Committee (NWC), has appointed Sithembiso Mshengu as his personal spokesperson, effective November 5,  2025. 

Mshengu will manage all media queries on Mchunu’s behalf during his preparation for and appearance before the Madlanga Commission.

“He will also cover all matters related to his recent appearance before the Ad Hoc Committee, and other related political matters currently under discussion,” reads the statement.

IOL News reached out to Mshengu, who promised to provide a response regarding the handover of the devices.

*This is a developing story.*

IOL

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