KZN SAPS Returns 121 Dockets to Task Team Critical Move to Speed Up Justice

The KZN Political Killings Investigation has entered a critical phase after the South African Police Service (SAPS) announced that it has returned 121 political murder dockets to KwaZulu-Natal, allowing the disbanded Political Killings Task Team to resume investigations. This development follows months of uncertainty and accusations of political interference at the highest level.

KZN Political Killings Investigation: Why SAPS Returned the Dockets

Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed that copies of all dockets were made for the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, while the originals have been sent back to KwaZulu-Natal to ensure investigations continue without delay. “The national commissioner decided to return the files to KZN to ensure that we do not delay justice for the families that are waiting for answers and for the victims that have died,” Mathe told 702.

Of the SAPS political dockets, 107 relate to murder cases, including killings of traditional leaders, councillors, and party members, while the remainder involve attempted murders, conspiracies to commit murder, and cases of pointing a firearm.

Political Killings Task Team Back in Action

The decision comes after KZN Provincial Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi openly accused suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu of interfering in police operations, including ordering the disbandment of the task team and the removal of the dockets.

Mkhwanazi alleged that Mchunu protected individuals implicated in political killings – claims the minister dismissed as “baseless.”

Mathe defended the track record of the Political Killings Task Team, stating that, “Since 2018, the task team has investigated 333 dockets and secured over 130 convictions. The successes include arrests of hitmen, hit orderers, and spotters. The work is there; the successes are there.”

Madlanga Commission’s Role in the KZN Political Killings Investigation

President Cyril Ramaphosa and acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia initially opposed the decision to move the dockets back to KZN, arguing that they formed part of the Madlanga Commission’s mandate and should remain under its control.

Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya reiterated that the commission could fast-track urgent cases and refer them back to police when necessary, thereby avoiding delays.

But SAPS maintained that leaving the files idle could expose the service to legal risk.“Legally we could be sued. We are defeating the ends of justice if we let these cases sit untouched,” Mathe warned.

The compromise was to create duplicates for the commission while resuming investigations in KZN.

Political Implications of the KZN Political Killings Investigation

The KZN political killings investigation has become one of the most sensitive issues facing government and law enforcement. KwaZulu-Natal has been a hotspot for politically motivated assassinations, particularly ahead of elections.

According to SAPS statistics, dozens of councillors and political activists have been murdered in the past five years, with many cases linked to intra-party disputes, tender fights, and power struggles.

The return of the dockets is being seen as an attempt to restore confidence in the justice system and to deliver long-awaited closure to victims’ families.

Cachalia and SAPS Reach Understanding

Despite his earlier criticism, acting Police Minister Cachalia and the national commissioner have since reconciled their positions.“What is important is that they have met. They found each other. We have released a joint statement and we are going forward,” Mathe confirmed.

This joint effort signals a renewed commitment to fight political killings aggressively and to cooperate with the commission rather than working at cross purposes.

Why This Matters for Justice and Democracy

The return of the dockets could speed up prosecutions and strengthen South Africa’s fight against political violence. Analysts warn that unresolved killings undermine public confidence in the state and embolden perpetrators.

By balancing the needs of the Madlanga Commission with the urgency of investigations, SAPS is attempting to deliver a dual solution: ensuring accountability and preventing further bloodshed.

About the Author

Sisanda Mgojo

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I am Sisanda Mgojo, a dedicated journalist and storyteller with a degree in Journalism from the Durban University of Technology. Passionate about uncovering the truth and amplifying diverse voices, with a keen interest in current affairs, politics, and social development, she is committed to producing impactful stories that inform, engage, and inspire audiences.

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