KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi finds himself at the centre of controversy following allegations of interference in a drug-smuggling investigation at Westville Maximum Prison.
Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi accused of peddling corruption at Westville prison
The claims, which surfaced after an August 2024 raid, challenge his longstanding reputation as a no-nonsense crime fighter.
The allegations stem from a high-profile raid conducted at Westville Prison’s Medium B section.
This operation, led by National Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale, uncovered contraband including cash, drugs, cellphones, and routers.
Sources who spoke to City Press claim that Mkhwanazi obstructed the arrest of a senior Department of Correctional Services official implicated in the smuggling cartel.
Mkhwanazi reportedly questioned the conduct of officers involved in the raid, expressing concerns about evidence potentially being planted.
A source stated:
- “He asked the national office to investigate the conduct of the police officers who carried out the raid.”
This suggests Mkhwanazi’s intervention may have been aimed at ensuring procedural integrity rather than protecting suspects.
This is not the first time Mkhwanazi has faced public scrutiny.
In 2012, during his tenure as acting national police commissioner, he suspended controversial crime intelligence boss Richard Mdluli, who faced allegations of corruption and fraud.
The suspension defied political pressure and drew public praise, but it also sparked allegations against Mkhwanazi himself, accusing him of misusing funds from a Secret Service account to purchase vehicles
In his defence, Mkhwanazi welcomed investigations into his actions, declaring:
“I would welcome the public protector, Parliament, the United Nations or anyone to investigate me.”
Despite these challenges, he maintained his stance against political interference, a trait that has both defined and complicated his career.
Mkhwanazi’s journey in law enforcement began in 1993.
Rising through the ranks, he became the head of the elite Special Task Force in 2005.
Known for his strong leadership, he was appointed acting national police commissioner in 2011 during a turbulent time for the South African Police Service (SAPS)
Since his appointment as KZN provincial commissioner in 2018, Mkhwanazi has gained respect for his hands-on approach and commitment to fighting organized crime.