Commissioner Sandile Khumalo, serving on the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, has raised concerns over the possible abuse of state resources following a failed attempt to arrest entertainment blogger Musa Khawula.
The commission heard testimony that six police officers were deployed to an event in Kroonstad with the intention of apprehending Khawula. The operation was reportedly linked to posts he had made on the social media platform X involving Fikile Mbalula and businessman Ze Nxumalo.
Evidence presented revealed that Nxumalo had purchased tickets for the officers to attend the event where Khawula was expected to appear. However, Khawula was not present at the venue, rendering the operation unsuccessful.
Khumalo questioned whether the circumstances surrounding the deployment pointed to an improper use of public resources.
However, Sergeant Fannie Nkosi of the Gauteng Organised Crime Unit rejected the suggestion that the operation amounted to misuse. Nkosi told the commission that, in his view, the deployment was justified given Khawula’s public profile and the potential challenges officers might face when attempting an arrest in a public setting.
“According to me, I would not see or suggest it’s a state funds abuse because Mr Khawula is a public figure,” Nkosi said. He added that police operations in public spaces can sometimes require additional support due to possible resistance from crowds.
Nkosi also noted that local police in Kroonstad could have assisted if Khawula had been located in the area.
The commission continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident as part of its broader inquiry.