Top cop is back
Staff Writer / Fri, 16 October 2026
President Cyril Ramaphosa has reinstated General Sehlahle Fannie Masemola as National Police Commissioner, paving the way for him to resume his duties on Monday, 19 October.
The decision follows the withdrawal of criminal charges against Masemola by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
AdvertisementYour business hereAdvertise with News JunctionMasemola was placed on precautionary suspension in April after being charged with contravening the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) in connection with a controversial SAPS healthcare tender.
The case involved a R360 million contract awarded to Medicare24, a company linked to businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.
According to the NPA, National Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Andy Mothibi reviewed the evidence and concluded that there were no reasonable prospects of a successful prosecution against Masemola.
The charges were formally withdrawn at the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court on 22 September.
The NPA said the decision followed a review of the evidence gathered by the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption, a Case Assessment Panel report and an independent senior counsel’s assessment.
Mothibi also directed that the circumstances surrounding the prosecution be examined to determine whether there had been any misconduct in the handling of the case.
Masemola’s reinstatement comes after political parties and police unions called for his return following the withdrawal of the charges.
The South African Communist Party and the South African Policing Union were among those who argued that his suspension should be lifted.
The reinstatement restores Masemola to the top position in the police service after months on the sidelines.
However, the withdrawal of the charges against him does not automatically resolve the separate criminal cases involving other accused linked to the controversial tender.
Masemola is expected to resume his responsibilities as the country’s police chief on Monday.
News Junction
