Where are the drugs? Madlanga Commission uncovers theft
DURBAN — The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry shifts its focus this week to the alarming disappearance of seized narcotics from law enforcement custody in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. The hearings, which resume today, aim to uncover how illicit substances vanish from police evidence stores and the extent of corruption within South African law enforcement agencies.
The Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System is investigating several high-profile drug seizures. According to commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels, this week serves as a continuation of shocking testimony delivered recently, including sensitive in-camera evidence provided by a protected witness on Friday.
The inquiry is particularly interested in the handling of narcotics after they are confiscated. Previous testimony highlighted significant gaps in the chain of custody, specifically regarding a major drug seizure at the Durban harbour. Investigators are looking into whether political interference or organized criminal syndicates within the police service played a role in the theft of these exhibits.
This week marks the final stretch of public hearings before the commission takes a hiatus starting 18 May. During this break, the legal team will finalize the second interim report. This document is expected to detail systemic failures within the criminal justice system and provide a roadmap for accountability.
The urgency of the commission’s work is underscored by the upcoming deadline for the interim report, which must be delivered to President Cyril Ramaphosa by 29 May 2026. The findings could have far-reaching implications for the South African Police Service and the National Prosecuting Authority as they grapple with internal corruption.
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