Johannesburg – Suspended Gauteng Traffic Police Chief Inspector Samuel Mashaba has succumbed to an unspecified illness at Milpark Hospital.
Mashaba gained national prominence when he appeared before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry for his role in the July 2021 Aeroton cocaine seizure of more than 715kg of cocaine, worth about R300 million.
Announcing his passing on Tuesday, 13 October 2026, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said: “On behalf of the Gauteng Provincial Government, I wish to convey our deepest condolences to the Mashaba family following the passing of Chief Inspector Samuel Mashaba.
“We also extend our condolences to his colleagues in the Gauteng Traffic Police and the broader law enforcement fraternity, who are mourning the loss of a colleague.
“May the family find strength, comfort and courage in the support of those around them during this period of grief. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.”
Mashaba passed away while on suspension for his role in the drug seizure that came under the spotlight earlier this year in June at the Madlanga Commission – the ongoing judicial commission of inquiry into criminality, political interference, and corruption in the criminal justice system.
The commission examined allegations that Mashaba acted beyond his duties as a traffic officer by participating in a major narcotics operation instead of handing intelligence to the South African Police Service or specialised crime units.
Commissioners questioned Mashaba about his relationship with businessman and alleged informant Tumelo Nku.
Evidence included messages suggesting a close personal and financial connection that extended beyond a conventional informant-handler relationship.
Mashaba acknowledged receiving money from Nku, describing it as loans or assistance from a friend.
