The head of South Africa’s police force, Fannie Masemola, has been summoned to appear in court over his alleged role in a controversial health services contract now under criminal investigation.
Authorities confirmed that Masemola, 62, has been served with a notice to appear on 21 April, though the exact charges have not yet been disclosed. The case centres on a $21m tender awarded in 2024 to a company linked to businessman Vusimuzi Matlala, intended to provide healthcare services to the police.
The contract has since been cancelled following corruption allegations. Prosecutors say more than a dozen senior police officers have already been charged in connection with the deal, accused of colluding in what investigators suspect was a fraudulent process. Matlala has also been charged and denies the accusations, including a separate attempted murder charge.
Masemola becomes the third national police commissioner in South Africa to face a criminal probe while in office, raising fresh concerns about corruption within the force.
The investigation gained momentum after revelations at the Madlanga Commission, established by President Cyril Ramaphosa to examine allegations of criminal networks infiltrating law enforcement.
Officials say Masemola has pledged to cooperate fully with legal proceedings. The National Prosecuting Authority confirmed the summons but declined to reveal details of the charges until they are formally presented in court.
President Ramaphosa has acknowledged the development, stating that the matter will be handled in line with the law, while emphasising the need to maintain stability within the police service.
The case adds to a troubling history of corruption scandals involving senior police officials in South Africa, as pressure mounts for accountability and reform within the country’s law enforcement institutions.
