Masemola: SAPS has identified some of SA's most notorious crime suspects as the 'Big Five'

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has identified some of the country’s most notorious organised crime suspects as the "Big Five".

National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola told the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry in Pretoria on Monday that certain senior officers are suspected of having links to the group.

Testifying before the commission, which is investigating allegations of police corruption, Masemola confirmed that names were attached to the "Big Five" but has yet to reveal their identities.

"The report included the identity of senior SAPS officers who are associated with criminal syndicates and who are advancing or protecting the interests of 'Big Five' within the criminal justice system. The 'Big Five' is people that are involved in criminal syndicates. They were named 'Big Five' by the team."