Suspended Deputy National Commissioner of Crime Detection, Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya, has alleged that his life is in serious danger following a dramatic raid by the Hawks at his home on Thursday. The elite crime-fighting unit reportedly confiscated several of his electronic devices, intensifying the controversy surrounding his suspension from the South African Police Service (SAPS)....Click to Read More >>➤

The high-profile search operation, which took place under tight security, has raised questions about the motives behind the raid and the ongoing internal power struggles within the upper ranks of the police service.

Sibiya, known for his past leadership roles in crime detection and anti-corruption units, told journalists that he believes the raid was politically motivated. “I believe my life is in danger,” he declared, describing the incident as part of a “targeted campaign” to silence or remove him from his position permanently.

According to sources close to the investigation, Hawks officers arrived at Sibiya’s residence early Thursday morning with a search warrant, conducting a thorough sweep of the property before seizing multiple electronic gadgets, including phones, laptops, and storage devices. The purpose of the confiscation remains unclear, but it is reportedly linked to an internal investigation involving senior police officials.

Sibiya, who has been under suspension pending disciplinary proceedings, suggested that the timing of the raid was not coincidental. He described it as a “strategic move” aimed at discrediting him amid mounting political tension within the police leadership. “It’s clear that there are powerful individuals who do not want me in this position,” he said. “This is about more than an investigation it’s about control and intimidation.”

Security strategist and policing expert Andy Mashaile weighed in on the incident, describing the heavy police presence at Sibiya’s home as both “expected and telling.” Mashaile said the Hawks’ operation reflects a broader conflict playing out within the law enforcement hierarchy. “The police service is out in full force,” he commented. “Given the recent revelations by the parliamentary ad hoc committee investigating the KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, this development doesn’t come as a surprise.”

The reference to the ad hoc committee points to ongoing investigations into allegations involving KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, which have exposed deep fractures within SAPS leadership. The inquiries have reportedly created internal divisions, with factions aligning themselves with or against key figures like Sibiya.

The Hawks have yet to issue an official statement detailing the reason for Thursday’s search or what evidence they were looking for. However, insiders suggest the operation forms part of a broader corruption and misconduct investigation linked to high-ranking police officials.

Observers say the raid on Sibiya’s home could signal an escalation in what some describe as a “power war” within the SAPS a clash that could have implications for national policing stability.

A senior police source, speaking anonymously, hinted that the raid could also be related to allegations of irregular conduct in certain high-profile cases previously handled by Sibiya. “The investigators are following every lead,” the source said. “No one is above scrutiny, but the internal politics cannot be ignored.”

This is not the first time Sibiya has faced scrutiny. The senior officer has been at the center of controversy before, particularly during his time at the Hawks’ Gauteng division, where he was linked to investigations into corruption and organized crime. Supporters view him as a tough, reform-minded officer targeted by internal enemies, while critics argue that his aggressive style has earned him powerful adversaries.

The renewed allegations and the latest search have reignited public debate about transparency and political interference within the police service. Civil rights groups and anti-corruption organizations are now calling for clarity and oversight to ensure the investigation remains impartial.

As the dust settles, Sibiya’s claims of threats to his life have added urgency to the unfolding drama. He has reportedly increased his personal security and informed close associates of possible attempts to intimidate him. “I am not safe,” he reiterated in a brief statement after the raid. “I will cooperate with lawful investigations, but I will not be silenced.”

For now, the nation watches closely as the Hawks continue their probe and SAPS leadership grapples with mounting internal turmoil. Whether the raid marks the beginning of a legitimate investigation or a politically charged offensive remains to be seen but one thing is clear: the tensions within South Africa’s top policing structures are far from over. ...Click to Read More >>➤