Top cop Shibiri fired over criminal links
During the commission, Shibiri admitted to receiving a R70 000 loan from alleged underworld figure Cat Matlala.
Police have confirmed the dismissal of Major General Richard Shibiri following the conclusion of internal disciplinary proceedings.
Shibiri was found guilty of misconduct linked to conduct that brought the police service into disrepute, including associating with a known criminal.
The senior officer was suspended in 2025 after his testimony before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, which is probing allegations of criminal infiltration and political interference within the justice system.
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During the commission, Shibiri admitted to receiving a R70 000 loan from alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, who faces charges including attempted murder and fraud.
Police said the relationship formed part of the basis of the disciplinary case against him.
In May, investigators raided Shibiri’s home, seizing electronic devices as part of an expanding probe.
National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe on Friday confirmed that the disciplinary process had been finalised.
“Major General Shibiri was found guilty of misconduct relating to conduct that brought the organisation into disrepute, including associating himself with a known criminal,” she said.
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Shibiri previously served as Gauteng head of Organised Crime before his appointment to lead the national elite Organised Crime Unit.
His dismissal comes as he remains a key figure in the Madlanga Commission proceedings.
