Chief Faro Makes a Stand at the Madlanga Commission
On Tuesday, Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) Chief Yolande Faro testified before the Madlanga Commission, a public inquiry looking into serious problems in the city’s police and tender systems. She delivered a strong message: Sergeant Fannie Nkosi, an officer from the Gauteng organised crime unit, never had permission to get involved in how the city awards contracts for work and services.
“I Hate Criminals in Uniform”
During her testimony, Chief Faro was very clear. She stated that Nkosi had “no authority, no permission” to interfere in any procurement matters—meaning how the city spends its money on things like infrastructure or services. She emphasized her personal stance by saying, “I hate criminals in uniform,” and warned that anyone found involved in corruption will be held accountable.
What Is the Madlanga Commission Investigating?
The commission is digging into claims that city funds were stolen and moved into accounts that weren’t approved. This has raised big worries about poor management and failing services in the metro police. At the center of the probe is suspended deputy chief Umashi Dhlamini, who faces accusations of changing tender processes to help certain contractors win deals unfairly. Evidence suggests that oversight was ignored, conflicts of interest were hidden, and irregular spending was allowed to happen.
Nkosi’s Testimony Adds a New Twist
Sergeant Nkosi also spoke to the commission. He claimed that Dhlamini told him to go to the city’s chief financial officer, Gareth Mnisi, and that Mnisi would check with someone called “CIC Juju” to verify companies. This hint of “CIC Juju” suggests there might have been political meddling in public tenders, which is a major red flag.
Faro Distances the Department and Points Out Flaws
Chief Faro firmly separated the TMPD from Nkosi’s actions. “Nkosi had no authority… within the TMPD,” she said. She added that she didn’t know Nkosi at all and had never contacted him—she first saw him at the commission. But Faro also admitted there are serious internal problems. She revealed that not all deputy chiefs in the department have top-secret security clearance, which is needed for sensitive jobs like handling procurement. This gap, she said, puts the whole system at risk.
Calling for Urgent Changes
To fix these issues, Faro demanded immediate reforms. She said all senior officials must go through compulsory vetting—a thorough background check—to ensure they are trustworthy. Faro, who has top-secret clearance from the State Security Agency herself, stressed that tightening controls is essential to rebuild public trust.
Faro’s Role and the Road Ahead
Chief Faro was appointed to her position on October 1, 2023. She made it clear that she will not tolerate “rogue elements” in her department and will take action against them. The Madlanga Commission’s inquiry is still happening, with more evidence and testimonies expected.
Conclusion: A Test of Integrity
The Madlanga Commission has exposed deep cracks in the Tshwane Metro Police Department, from unauthorized interference in tenders to gaps in security clearance. Chief Faro’s testimony highlights a zero-tolerance approach toward corruption, but also acknowledges the need for systemic reforms. As the inquiry continues, the focus is on restoring accountability and ensuring that public money is used properly, without criminal or political influence. For teens, this story shows why transparency and honesty in government matter—it affects the services and safety in your community.
