Johannesburg – A Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) officer, Johannes Makgatle, will face charges for allegedly misusing state resources, the department announced Friday. The investigation centers on claims that Makgatle used a council vehicle to travel to the home of alleged crime boss Katiso “KT” Molefe, raising questions about potential obstruction of justice and improper conduct by a law enforcement official.
The JMPD’s Internal Affairs Unit completed its investigation on March 3, 2026, and the findings have been signed off by Chief of Police Commissioner P. Jaca. While initial reports suggested Makgatle had been arrested, JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla clarified that the officer is currently suspended and the matter has been referred for internal prosecution, with formal charges to follow. The case highlights the ongoing scrutiny of police conduct and potential links between law enforcement and individuals involved in criminal activity.
The investigation revealed that Makgatle, while reportedly on sick leave, misappropriated a council vehicle and drove to Molefe’s residence and the surrounding area before returning home. Fihla confirmed that Makgatle failed to follow proper procedure by not logging the vehicle’s use in an Occurrence Book or obtaining permission from a supervisor. While Makgatle’s presence near Molefe’s home was confirmed, investigators were unable to determine if Molefe was inside the vehicle at any point.
The allegations against Makgatle first surfaced during testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference, and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System. General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, a top police official, identified Makgatle as a close associate of Molefe, who was arrested in December 2024. Mkhwanazi stated before the commission that Makgatle deposited an affidavit during the investigation following Molefe’s arrest, raising concerns about potential collusion.
Despite the concerns raised, the JMPD investigation found no evidence to support claims that state systems or resources were used to directly assist Molefe on the day of his arrest. According to Fihla, the investigation was hampered by a lack of specific information, such as vehicle registration numbers, preventing investigators from proving that Makgatle disclosed information about suspicious vehicles to Molefe. Similarly, no evidence was found to suggest that Makgatle facilitated vehicle registrations or license renewals for Molefe in exchange for any benefit.
Vehicle Policy Breach Confirmed
Though, the investigation did substantiate a breach of the JMPD Vehicle Policy. Fihla explained that Makgatle reported for duty on the day in question but was sent home due to illness. Despite this, he allegedly used a council vehicle without authorization for personal travel, specifically to visit Molefe’s home. This unauthorized use, coupled with the failure to follow proper vehicle logging procedures, constitutes the basis for the charges against him.
Allegations and the Madlanga Commission
The connection between Makgatle and Molefe was brought to light during the Madlanga Commission, which is examining allegations of corruption and interference within the criminal justice system. Mkhwanazi’s testimony revealed that Makgatle submitted an affidavit as part of the investigation into Molefe’s arrest on February 5, 2025. Molefe’s arrest by the Hawks has been a focal point of the commission’s inquiry.
“I wanted to draw your attention to demonstrate before this commission that there is other involvement of police officers, an example that I’m putting here is one police officer from Johannesburg Metro. This police officer is a very close associate of the arrested Mr Katiso Molefe,” Mkhwanazi told the commission, according to reports.
The JMPD has emphasized its commitment to holding its officers accountable for misconduct. Fihla stated that Makgatle will remain suspended pending the outcome of the internal prosecution process. The department has not provided a timeline for when formal charges will be served, but indicated that the process is underway.
The case involving Johannes Makgatle and Katiso Molefe underscores the challenges facing law enforcement agencies in maintaining integrity and preventing corruption. The JMPD’s decision to pursue charges against one of its own officers demonstrates a willingness to address allegations of misconduct, but the full extent of any potential wrongdoing remains to be seen. The outcome of the internal prosecution will be closely watched by the public and could have significant implications for the JMPD’s reputation and its efforts to combat crime in Johannesburg.
The JMPD has not yet announced a date for the internal prosecution hearing. Updates on the case will be provided as they become available. Readers are encouraged to follow the JMPD’s official channels for the latest information.
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