Lebeya denies interfering in police operation at ‘KT’ Molefe’s home, Madlanga Commission hears

Retired Hawks head Godfrey Lebeya testified before the Madlanga Commission that he ordered officers to Katiso "KT" Molefe's Sandton residence during a police operation, but claimed his intent was not to disrupt the lawful action. Lebeya stated he became suspicious when he received a call from Malcolm X claiming people identified as Hawks officers were present at Molefe's house.

He contacted senior Hawks officials, Major-General Ebrahim Kadwa and Lieutenant-General Patrick Mbotho, to verify if they were aware of any operation at the address. Kadwa and Mbotho denied any knowledge of the operation. Lebeya instructed Kadwa and Mbotho to investigate the scene to determine if individuals were falsely posing as Hawks members.

The retired Hawks chief placed responsibility for the communication breakdown on Crime Intelligence head Lieutenant-General Dumisani Khumalo, who had not been informed about the planned operation. Lebeya's testimony highlights the complexities surrounding the arrest of Molefe, linked to various murders, including Oupa "DJ Sumbody" Sefoka and Armand Swart.

The Phala Phala probe, which was under investigation by private investigator Paul O'Sullivan, was also a topic of discussion during Lebeya's testimony.