Pretoria – The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed the dismissal of Major General Richard Shibiri, the former Component Head for Organised Crime, following the conclusion of internal disciplinary proceedings.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe announced today, Friday, 5 June 2026, that Shibiri was found guilty of misconduct after associating himself with “a known criminal”, an act deemed to have brought the organisation into disrepute.
She said the ensuing disciplinary process was conducted under SAPS prescripts and principles of procedural fairness.
Shibiri’s removal marks a significant development within the police service, particularly in the fight against organised crime, where he previously held a senior leadership role.
Shiburi’s conduct came under the spotlight during the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into alleged corruption, cartel infiltration, and malfeasance in the South African Police Service.
The commission heard evidence linking Shibiri to Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, a businessman and tenderpreneur facing serious charges, including attempted murder and alleged involvement in organised crime networks.
Shibiri admitted receiving R70 000 from Matlala, which he described as a loan to repair his son’s vehicle.
He claimed to have repaid R20 000 in cash in November 2024 and the remaining R50 000 in December 2024.
Shibiri also made phone calls to Matlala before a police raid, raising suspicions that he had tipped off the businessman.
Matlala remains in custody after several attempts to secure bail failed owing to the serious charges he faces.
