Godfrey Lebeya To Testify At Madlanga Commission Over Katiso Molefe Arrest

Former Hawks head Godfrey Lebeya is expected to appear before the Madlanga Commission on Thursday, where his alleged links to suspected cartel figure Katiso “KT” Molefe are likely to come under scrutiny. Previous testimony before the commission has raised questions about Lebeya’s involvement in a Hawks deployment to Molefe’s Sandton residence during an arrest operation in December 2024.

The operation was carried out by Gauteng Intelligence officers investigating the murder of Vereeniging engineer Armand Swart. Hawks members were subsequently accused of interfering with the South African Police Service (SAPS) operation.

The commission heard in November last year that Lebeya allegedly played a role in the Hawks’ involvement in the operation. Senior Hawks officer Dumisani Mbotho testified that Lebeya provided him with the address of Molefe’s Sandton home on 6 December 2024.

Madlanga Commission To Question Godfrey Lebeya Over Molefe Operation

The Madlanga Commission previously heard that Hawks units were deployed to Molefe’s Sandton mansion while Gauteng Intelligence officers were carrying out the arrest operation. Molefe was later arrested over allegations that he orchestrated Swart’s murder.

Mbotho told the commission that he received a call from Lebeya on the day of the arrest. According to his testimony, the former Hawks head asked whether he knew about a Hawks operation taking place in Sandton.

The testimony has placed Lebeya’s actions during the operation under the spotlight. His appearance on Thursday is expected to provide his account of the events surrounding the deployment.

Godfrey Lebeya Linked To Katiso Molefe Arrest Investigation

Molefe’s arrest formed part of an investigation into the killing of Swart, a Vereeniging-based engineer. The Hawks’ involvement became contentious after officers were accused of disrupting or interfering with the SAPS operation.

Mbotho’s evidence linked Lebeya directly to information used during the operation. He said Lebeya had given him Molefe’s residential address before the arrest.

The commission is now set to hear from Lebeya himself. His testimony could provide further detail on why Hawks officers were deployed to the Sandton property and what instructions were given at the time.

Madlanga Commission Awaits Lebeya’s Evidence On Hawks Deployment

Lebeya’s appearance comes after several witnesses have testified about alleged links between law enforcement officials and individuals suspected of involvement in organised crime. The former Hawks head has been connected to the commission’s examination of the circumstances surrounding Molefe and the 2024 arrest.

Mbotho’s account is among the evidence the commission will consider as it examines the Hawks’ actions. Lebeya will have an opportunity to respond to the allegations and evidence presented before the inquiry.

The former Hawks head is scheduled to take the stand on Thursday as the Madlanga Commission continues its investigation.