Major-General Feroz Khan dismissed by SAPS after failing to attend disciplinary hearing

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has dismissed Major-General Feroz Khan following his failure to attend a disciplinary hearing. According to SAPS, the decision was made in accordance with the SAPS Discipline Regulations. The South African Police Service emphasized that all members, irrespective of rank, are held to the same standard of accountability and professional conduct.

The dismissal follows a setback in the Labour Court, where Khan's request to halt the disciplinary process was rejected. Judge Connie Prinsloo ruled that the court did not have jurisdiction over the matter and that Khan had not demonstrated urgency. Khan's legal team argued that the disciplinary hearing took place while he was receiving medical treatment after a shooting incident in Johannesburg in June.

However, the court did not address the specifics of his case, focusing instead on jurisdiction and the issue of urgency. Khan, a prominent figure in South Africa's policing crisis, has been linked to allegations of political interference within SAPS and has been mentioned during proceedings before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, which investigates corruption, criminal infiltration, and political interference in law enforcement.

Khan is currently under subpoena by the commission, although his appearance has been delayed due to medical concerns. Additionally, Khan faces criminal charges alongside two other individuals for alleged offenses related to the release of a businessman found in possession of an unwrought gold bar in 2021. All three defendants deny the charges and are currently out on bail pending further developments in their criminal case.