Gauteng Traffic Chief Suspended Twice Over Botched 700kg Cocaine Bust

Gauteng Traffic Police Chief Inspector Samuel Mashaba has been suspended for the second time over his role in a controversial 2021 cocaine operation that seized more than 700 kilograms of drugs — raising serious questions about corruption and abuse of power within South Africa’s law enforcement ranks.

The Gauteng Provincial Government placed Mashaba on precautionary suspension with immediate effect following admissions he made during testimony before the Madlanga Commission. A formal disciplinary process is now underway.

What Did Mashaba Admit?

The Office of the Premier confirmed that Mashaba’s testimony revealed conduct potentially amounting to serious breaches of the Public Service Code of Conduct, departmental policies and laws governing public servants.

The Botched Drug Bust of 2021

Mashaba spent three days testifying about his involvement in a drug operation in Aeroton, south of Johannesburg, in 2021. The operation intercepted a truck transporting cocaine from Durban to Johannesburg, resulting in the seizure of over 700 kilograms of cocaine.

The problem? Traffic officers are legally prohibited from actively participating in high-level law enforcement operations of that nature. Instead of alerting the South African Police Service (SAPS) after receiving a tip-off, Mashaba allegedly travelled to the scene and took part in the operation himself.

His tip-off came from Tumelo Nku, whom Mashaba described as an informant. However, WhatsApp communications presented before the commission have since linked Nku to drug trafficking. Mashaba admitted to accepting money from Nku and openly described their dealings as a “side hustle.”

Was the Operation Even Legal?

Evidence before the commission suggests Mashaba and several co-accused individuals may not have had the legal authority to conduct the operation at all. Investigators are now examining whether the group intended to unlawfully seize the drug consignment rather than carry out a legitimate law enforcement action.

A Second Suspension — And Stricter Conditions

This marks the second time Mashaba has been suspended over the same incident. He was first suspended in 2021, then reinstated following arbitration, before being suspended again now.

Under the current suspension, Mashaba must surrender all tools of trade, including phones, firearms and laptops. He is also banned from entering government buildings or contacting staff members to prevent interference with ongoing investigations.

Government Vows Accountability

The Gauteng Provincial Government stated it takes the allegations seriously and remains committed to integrity, accountability and professionalism across all its institutions. It warned that any conduct undermining public trust would be addressed “decisively and in accordance with the law.”

For young South Africans already skeptical of government institutions, this case is a stark reminder of why transparency and oversight in law enforcement matter — and why commissions like Madlanga play a critical role in holding power to account.