High-level probe into Crime Intelligence boss shooting

Gauteng police have launched a high-level investigation into the shooting of Crime Intelligence deputy head, Major-General, Feroz Khan in Johannesburg on Sunday night, reports eNCA. Khan is fighting for his life in hospital after he was shot in an alleged hit. It is understood that Khan was shot at 11pm by two unidentified assailants in a white Mercedes-Benz. Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe told The Citizen two 9mm bullet casings were found. Khan is believed to be in a critical condition. He was expected to testify before the Madlanga Commission on Wednesday, facing several allegations as investigators probe alleged political ties and interference in police operations. He abandoned legal efforts to block his testimony and investigators’ access to his electronic devices. The Crime Intelligence official was charged alongside Gauteng Hawks head Ebrahim Kadwa in connection with the unlawful dealing in and possession of illicit precious metals.

Central to the evidence against Khan are WhatsApp exchanges involving Khan, Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema and businessman Mohammadh Sayed, who is linked to the tobacco company Carnilinx. Khan’s appearance followed his decision in May to withdraw an urgent court bid to prevent the commission and the police from accessing electronic devices seized after his arrest, according to The Citizen. Under scrutiny is Khan’s alleged relationship with Malema, including whether political influence was leveraged to shield the Crime Intelligence boss from disciplinary action over financial misconduct. Khan was also questioned about his involvement in the 2021 Aeroton drug bust in Johannesburg, where 715.86kg of cocaine were seized. Allegations that Khan interfered in the seizure operation form a key part of this line of inquiry. The commission also wishes to question Khan about his alleged links to individuals associated with organised crime including Oupa Brown Mogotsi, Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala, and Matipandile Sotheni – identified as the alleged killer of ‘Witness D’, Marius van der Merwe.