Police have confirmed the dismissal of Major General Richard Shibiri following the conclusion of an internal disciplinary process.
Shibiri, who previously headed Gauteng Organised Crime and later led the national elite Organised Crime Unit, was suspended in 2025 amid allegations relating to criminal infiltration of the justice system. The suspension followed testimony he gave before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
During his appearance before the commission, Shibiri acknowledged receiving a R70,000 loan from alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, who is facing charges that include attempted murder and fraud.
Police Confirm Outcome Of Internal Disciplinary Process
On Friday, police announced that disciplinary proceedings against Shibiri had been finalised, with the former senior officer found guilty of misconduct.
Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe confirmed the outcome, saying, “Major General Shibiri was found guilty of misconduct relating to conduct that brought the organisation into disrepute, including associating himself with a known criminal.”
Police had previously stated that Shibiri’s relationship with Matlala had brought the service into disrepute, resulting in a lengthy disciplinary investigation.
Richard Shibiri Remains Linked To Madlanga Commission Probe
The dismissal comes as Shibiri continues to feature prominently in proceedings before the Madlanga Commission, which is investigating allegations of criminal activity and political interference within South Africa’s criminal justice system.
Investigators have also intensified their probe into the former general. In May, police searched Shibiri’s home and seized electronic devices as part of the ongoing investigation.
[Firoz Khan Heads To Johannesburg High Court To Seek Return Of Seized Electronic Devices]
Shibiri rose through the ranks of the South African Police Service, serving as Gauteng’s head of Organised Crime before being appointed to lead the national Organised Crime Unit.
