Crime Intelligence Head Dumisani Khumalo Arrested in Major Fraud and Corruption Probe

Pretoria – June 27, 2025 – Lieutenant General Dumisani Khumalo, the head of South Africa’s Crime Intelligence Division, was arrested at OR Tambo International Airport while preparing to travel abroad. His detention marks a dramatic turn in a widening corruption probe targeting senior figures in the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Khumalo, along with six co-accused, faces charges of fraud, corruption, and misuse of secret service funds. The case centers on the controversial appointment of 30-year-old civilian Dineo Mokwele to a senior intelligence position despite lacking the required qualifications. Prosecutors allege that this appointment, along with related property transactions, formed part of a R2.5 million scheme involving irregular spending of state resources.

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First Court Appearance in Pretoria

Khumalo and his co-accused made their initial appearance in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court, where bail was granted. The matter has since faced multiple postponements to allow for further investigation.

Authorities revealed that the arrest was carried out by the newly established Independent Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), a body created in the aftermath of the State Capture Commission to fast-track complex corruption cases. With full investigative and arresting powers, IDAC has been tasked with pursuing high-profile graft cases that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) lacks the capacity to handle.

Ongoing Allegations of Intelligence Fund Abuse

The case against Khumalo forms part of a broader series of probes into alleged mismanagement and looting of SAPS intelligence funds.

Observers have drawn parallels with earlier cases, such as that of former Crime Intelligence boss Richard Mdluli, who also faced trial for alleged misuse of slush funds. Civil society groups and whistleblowers have long raised red flags about systemic abuse within SAPS procurement and financial systems.

One such whistleblower, Patricia Morgan-Mashale, reportedly warned of Khumalo’s activities as early as 2023, alleging that secret service resources were being diverted for personal or political gain.

Denials and Support

Despite the charges, Khumalo has not been suspended and continues to serve as Crime Intelligence chief, a decision critics argue undermines SAPS credibility.

Khumalo strongly denies wrongdoing. His supporters, including senior figures like former national commissioner Bheki Mkhwanazi, insist the charges are politically motivated and lack substance. They argue that Khumalo is being targeted for internal SAPS power struggles rather than legitimate misconduct.

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What Comes Next

As the case progresses, prosecutors are expected to present more detailed evidence linking Khumalo to alleged fraudulent transactions and improper appointments within SAPS.

Legal analysts warn that the outcome will have far-reaching implications, not only for Khumalo’s career but also for ongoing efforts to clean up South Africa’s law enforcement agencies.

For now, all eyes remain on Pretoria’s courts, where the fate of one of the country’s most powerful police figures will be decided in the months ahead.