An official from the National Intelligence Co-ordinating Committee says South Africa could have been lost to criminal networks if intelligence structures had not taken control of Gauteng's counter-intelligence operations in February 2025. Dr Ntandazo Sifolo, acting co-ordinator at Nicoc, revealed this during his testimony at the Madlanga commission. He outlined how Nicoc identifies, assesses and reports threats posed by organised crime syndicates seeking to infiltrate state institutions.
Sifolo's testimony described how Nicoc took over the Gauteng counter-intelligence team's investigation into the alleged criminal cartel known as the Big Five. He explained that this move was crucial in preventing the criminal networks from gaining control of the country. The Madlanga commission is investigating various matters related to state capture and corruption.
The threat of criminal networks taking over South Africa is a serious concern. Organised crime syndicates have been trying to infiltrate state institutions, posing a significant risk to national security. Nicoc's efforts to identify and assess these threats are critical in preventing the country from falling under the control of criminal elements.
The shortage of psychiatric medication in Gauteng public health facilities has led to a crisis in psychiatric treatment. Nurses, a hospital manager and a psychiatrist have warned that the lack of essential sedatives and antipsychotic medication is putting patients and healthcare workers at risk. The shortages stem from supply chain disruptions affecting key psychiatric medicines.
The shortage of psychiatric medication has turned wards into danger zones. Patients are not receiving the treatment they need, and healthcare workers are facing significant challenges in providing care. The situation highlights the need for urgent action to address the shortages and ensure that patients receive the medication they need.
In a separate development, the leader of the Rise Tsantsabane Communities party used part of his pension fund to finance the party's campaign. Olebogeng Michael Mabilo, 45, said he took a risk by using his pension fund, but it has since paid off. The party unseated the ANC in Tsantsabane in the recent local government elections.
Mabilo's decision to use his pension fund to finance the party's campaign highlights the challenges faced by small parties in South Africa. The party did not have a large budget when it started campaigning for the elections, and Mabilo had to take a risk to ensure the party's success. The outcome of the elections demonstrates that small parties can make a significant impact with sufficient funding and support.
Key points
- Dr Ntandazo Sifolo testifies at Madlanga commission on preventing criminal networks from taking over South Africa.
- Shortage of psychiatric medication in Gauteng public health facilities leads to crisis in psychiatric treatment.
- Rise Tsantsabane Communities party leader uses part of his pension fund to finance party campaign.
