Gauteng Traffic Police Chief Provincial Inspector Samuel Mashaba has been placed on precautionary suspension following his explosive testimony before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into alleged criminality, police interference and corruption in the criminal justice system.
Mashaba’s suspension, effective immediately, was confirmed in a letter signed by Acting Head of Department Roche Mogorosi on 12 June 2026.
In the letter, which Africa Daily has seen, the Department of Community Safety said the suspension follows admissions allegedly made by Mashaba during his testimony on 11 and 12 June, where he is accused of misconduct, including misuse of official powers, misuse of departmental resources, accepting compensation from a member of the public, and engaging in corrupt activities.
“The above allegations are of a serious nature and have brought the name of the Department into disrepute,” the suspension letter states.
Mashaba testified before the commission about the controversial R300-million Aeroton drug bust involving a truck transporting narcotics from KwaZulu-Natal to Gauteng.
During his evidence, he admitted receiving money from police informant Itumeleng Nku, whom he now describes as a friend. The admission appears to contradict his previous statements in which he denied having a close relationship with Nku and maintained that no money had exchanged hands between them.
The Department said Mashaba’s continued presence in the workplace could interfere with investigations, witnesses and relevant documentation.
As part of the suspension conditions, he is barred from entering departmental offices, contacting employees, accessing departmental systems or communicating with witnesses and potential witnesses linked to the investigation.
He has also been ordered to surrender all departmental property in his possession, including his vehicle, uniform, firearm, laptop and cellphone.
The department stressed that the suspension is precautionary and does not constitute a finding of guilt. Mashaba will continue to receive his full salary and benefits while investigations and any subsequent disciplinary processes unfold.
The Madlanga Commission is probing allegations of corruption and interference within the criminal justice system, with Mashaba’s testimony emerging as one of the most closely watched appearances before the inquiry.
Mashaba could not be reached for comment at the time of publication.
This is a developing story.
