South Africa’s suspended deputy national police commissioner, Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya, resigned on Monday, 12 October 2026, shortly after an internal disciplinary hearing against him began.
The South African government’s official news reported that Sibiya’s lawyer submitted his resignation immediately after proceedings opened. The South African Police Service (SAPS) said his employment ended that day and classified his departure as a ‘dishonourable discharge’ because a disciplinary case was already under way.
Allegations Before the Disciplinary Hearing
Sibiya had faced seven disciplinary allegations linked to matters raised before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, which is examining allegations of corruption, political interference, and criminal influence within South Africa’s justice system.
TimesLIVE reported that the misconduct allegations concerned, among other matters, his dealings with businessman Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala, the handling of confidential police information and alleged interference in investigations.
Evidence presented to the commission has included allegations of improper payments and gifts. Sibiya has denied corruption and wrongdoing. The disciplinary hearing did not reach a finding on those allegations before he resigned.
Separate Criminal Case Continues
The former senior officer is also facing criminal proceedings at the Randburg Magistrate’s Court. The charges reported in court include rape, trafficking in persons, alleged sexual grooming of a minor, and a firearm-related offence. Sibiya denies the allegations. None of the charges amounts to a conviction.
Sowetan reported on Tuesday, 13 October, that his bail application had been postponed until Wednesday, 14 October. Magistrate Hleziphi Mkhasibe requested sworn statements from complainants to help assess concerns about possible interference or intimidation.
The court proceedings are separate from the SAPS disciplinary matter. His resignation does not determine the outcome of the criminal charges or the evidence before the Madlanga Commission.
What the Departure Means
SAPS has ended Sibiya’s employment, but questions raised in the commission and the pending criminal case remain subject to their respective processes. The outcome of those proceedings will determine which allegations, if any, are substantiated.
