Alleged Sibiya cash conduit Fannie Nkosi’s testimony postponed by Madlanga Commission

Sergeant Fannie Nkosi, the alleged "money collector" for the suspended deputy police commissioner, Shadrack Sibiya, did not testify at the Madlanga Commission. 

Nkosi's testimony has been postponed. 

The commission cited concerns over the witness's lack of preparation.

Nkosi, through his legal team, told the commission he was not in a position to take the stand on Friday, arguing that he had insufficient time to study a voluminous bundle of documents.

The secondary matter was that he feared for his personal safety should he testify prematurely.

The delay has injected fresh tension into proceedings already marked by high-stakes allegations and procedural sparring.

Commission chair Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga granted the postponement, emphasising fairness and due process.

“The matter is postponed to Tuesday next week,” Madlanga said.

“The main reason for that is that we, to an extent, do understand the plea that time is required to go through the documentation.”

Nkosi has also filed an application to testify in camera, one of two formal applications now before the commission.

That request will be considered when proceedings resume.

Friday’s sitting was dominated by a lengthy debate over Nkosi’s readiness, derailing what was expected to be a pivotal moment in the inquiry.

His attorney, Hartley Ngoato, told the commission that the defence was still grappling with at least a thousand pages of evidence that Nkosi is expected to address.

Nkosi is widely described as Sibiya’s trusted sergeant and is alleged to have reported directly to him.

He stands accused of acting as a conduit for illicit cash, allegedly collecting large sums on Sibiya’s behalf from tender tycoon Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and alleged cartel leader Katiso “KT” Molefe—both figures linked to organised crime investigations.

The allegations place Nkosi at the heart of the commission’s mandate to probe claims of corruption, collusion, and criminal capture within senior ranks of the South African Police Service.

His testimony is expected to be closely scrutinised for what it may reveal about money flows, influence network,s and the role of senior officers.

For now, the commission has opted for caution over speed.

While the delay frustrates momentum, Madlanga made it clear that a witness of Nkosi’s significance must testify fully prepared or not at all.

The pause sets the stage for what could be one of the inquiry’s most consequential appearances when proceedings resume next week.

kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za

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