Madlanga Commission hears evidence on Sindane’s access to SAPS info
Sindane's possession included internal shooting reports, on the murder of a police officer
Taxi magnate Oupa Sindane, dubbed 'King of the Sky', has been thrust into the limelight as the Madlanga commission examines his alleged connections to police and criminal organizations. Sindane's High Court bid to prevent the commission from using his WhatsApp messages fell through, resulting in punitive costs. Evidence revealed that he allegedly paid police escorts, received internal police reports, and maintained ties with senior officials, exposing a close-knit relationship between the taxi industry and law enforcement.
Legal bid Sindane's application to block the inquiry was dismissed with punitive costs, despite his legal team's attempt to prevent his appearance. WhatsApp messages showed Sindane communicating with retired Major-General Botsotso Moukangwe, who continued to liaise with him even after leaving the police force. Furthermore, Sindane's chats with a contact saved as "Lepara Saps Highway" suggest he had control over police escorts.
Access to internal police reports indicated that Sindane allegedly received reports on criminal activities, including the killing of businessman Sphamandla Mabonga. WhatsApp chats also revealed Sindane and his associate Joe "Ferrari" Sibanyoni tracked the activities of rival tenderpreneur Vusimusi "Cat" Matlala, who is currently on trial for attempted murder.
It is alleged that Sindane and Sibanyoni paid legal fees for convicted hitman Tshegofatso Richmond Makofane, who was sentenced for organizing deadly shootings. These revelations from the WhatsApp messages and financial dealings presented to the commission shed light on Sindane's alleged connections to police officers, senior officials, and criminal networks.
Sindane's testimony before the Madlanga Commission will determine the extent of these links and the commission's ability to uncover the networks tying the taxi industry, law enforcement, and organized crime. Sindane and Sibanyoni are co-accused in an extortion and money-laundering case, accused of forcing a businessman to pay over R2.2 million in "protection fees" between 2022 and 2025.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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