Johannesburg, 5 June 2026 — The South African Police Service (SAPS) has officially dismissed Major-General Richard Shibiri, the former Component Head for Organised Crime in the Hawks, following the conclusion of internal disciplinary proceedings.
SAPS confirmed the dismissal on Friday, stating that Shibiri was found guilty of misconduct for bringing the police service into disrepute, specifically through his association with a known criminal — widely understood to be businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.
Shibiri, who had been suspended since 2025, received his formal dismissal letter on 22 May 2026. SAPS national spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed the decision was taken in line with police disciplinary procedures and principles of procedural fairness.
This marks one of the most senior dismissals to date linked to evidence emerging from the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. Shibiri’s name featured prominently in testimonies regarding alleged criminal infiltration of law enforcement, tender irregularities, and associations that compromised police operations.
The dismissal comes on the same day reports emerged that nine other officers were suspended in connection with ongoing investigations.Sources indicate that Shibiri intends to challenge the dismissal at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).
The move is being viewed as a significant step by SAPS leadership to restore public confidence in the police amid the continuing revelations at the Madlanga Commission, which has exposed deep-rooted issues of corruption, tender manipulation, and drug-related scandals within the Hawks.