Hawks
The Madlanga Commission heard that former Hawks head Godfrey Lebeya directed action in the December 2024 arrest of Katiso Molefe in Sandton. Hawks officers were deployed to the scene, raising questions about their role in the operation. Contradictions in earlier testimony are being reviewed by the commission.
At hearings on Monday, the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry heard evidence regarding the December 2024 arrest of Katiso “KT” Molefe in Sandhurst, Sandton, Johannesburg. The commission is investigating alleged involvement by Hawks members in the operation.
Dumisani Mbotho, commander of the Hawks’ National Priority Offences Unit, testified that former Hawks head Godfrey Lebeya provided the address of the operation and instructed verification of activities at the scene. Mbotho said his team dispatched an unmarked vehicle and forwarded the address to Lesiba Mokoena of the Hawks’ Tactical Operations Management Section.
The arrest was formally conducted by the South African Police Service in connection with the murder of engineer Armand Swart. Questions arose during the hearing as to why Hawks officers remained at the scene for approximately 50 minutes after confirmation that the operation was authorised. Mbotho acknowledged that the continued presence could be viewed as interference.
The commission also noted contradictions in previous testimony by Mokoena regarding his involvement in a WhatsApp group linked to the arrest. Mokoena has been asked to return to the witness stand to clarify these discrepancies.
Public hearings on the matter are ongoing this week.
