South Africa’s national police commissioner, Fannie Masemola, has been formally charged in connection with a controversial multimillion-dollar health services contract, deepening a major corruption scandal within the country’s police force.
Masemola appeared before a court in Pretoria on Tuesday, facing four counts of violating the Public Finance Management Act over his alleged role in the awarding of a 360 million rand (about $21 million) contract meant to provide health and wellness services to police officers.
According to prosecutors, the contract was irregularly granted, with allegations that some officials involved may have received bribes from the companies that secured the deal. The contract has since been cancelled, while investigations continue into broader corruption within the police service.
The case is part of a wider probe that has already seen at least a dozen senior police officers arrested and charged. Masemola’s case is expected to be linked with those of 16 other accused individuals, including business figures allegedly connected to organised crime networks.
Despite mounting pressure, Masemola has indicated he will remain in office unless directed otherwise by the government. The office of President Cyril Ramaphosa said it has taken note of the charges and will address the matter in accordance with the law.
The scandal has triggered both a presidential commission of inquiry and parliamentary investigations, highlighting concerns over corruption and accountability within South Africa’s law enforcement institutions. The court has adjourned the case until mid-May for further proceedings.
