Suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya's lawyers have announced plans to apply for a postponement of his internal disciplinary hearing with the South African Police Service (SAPS). The hearing, which was scheduled to take place over allegations of misconduct and corruption, will be put on hold as Sibiya's legal team focuses on his bail hearing. According to his lawyer, Estelle Killian, Sibiya is not yet ready to face the disciplinary hearing.
Sibiya's legal team made the announcement at the Randburg Magistrates' Court on Friday, 29 September 2026. The court was informed that an application for postponement will be prepared and submitted on Monday. If the application is declined, Sibiya's lawyers will proceed with an urgent application to the Labour Court for a directive. This development comes as Sibiya faces allegations of misconduct and corruption that arose during the Madlanga commission.
The disciplinary hearing is one of several legal battles Sibiya is currently facing. He is also set to appear in court over a rape charge, which allegedly resulted from a fallout with the alleged victim's father. Sibiya's bail hearing has been delayed, and he will spend the weekend behind bars. His lawyers are prioritizing this hearing, citing the need for Sibiya to focus on his bail application at this stage.
The allegations against Sibiya include corruption and misconduct, which were uncovered during the Madlanga commission. The commission's findings led to Sibiya's suspension from his position as Deputy National Police Commissioner. The SAPS internal hearing is expected to scrutinize these allegations and determine the appropriate course of action. However, with the postponement application, the hearing will be delayed.
Sibiya's case has garnered significant attention in recent weeks, with several developments unfolding. The court has heard details of explicit WhatsApp messages between Sibiya and a minor. Additionally, there are reports that Sibiya may face further charges or consequences related to his alleged actions. As the case continues to unfold, Sibiya's lawyers will seek to navigate the complex legal landscape.
The postponement application is the latest development in Sibiya's ongoing legal battles. His lawyers will seek to persuade the court that a postponement is necessary, given Sibiya's current circumstances. The Labour Court will be involved if the initial application is declined. Sibiya's case highlights the complexities and challenges faced by law enforcement officials and the importance of due process.
As Sibiya's case continues, there are several key considerations at play. Firstly, the SAPS internal hearing will need to determine the veracity of the allegations against Sibiya. Secondly, his bail hearing will need to be resolved. Finally, the broader implications of Sibiya's alleged actions and the Madlanga commission's findings will need to be addressed. The postponement application is a strategic move by Sibiya's lawyers to ensure their client receives a fair hearing.
Key points
- Sibiya's lawyers to apply for postponement of his SAPS disciplinary hearing
- Sibiya faces allegations of misconduct and corruption
- The postponement application will be submitted on Monday
