Nkosi fails to justify leaking confidential dossiers to alleged crime figure

Sergeant Fannie Nkosi, an officer within the Gauteng SAPS Organised Crime unit, struggled significantly on Tuesday to explain why he funnelled confidential police information to Steve Motsumi, an individual described as a notorious figure.

Testifying before the Madlanga Commission in Pretoria, Nkosi faced rigorous interrogation regarding allegations that he acted as a middleman between senior police officials and suspected crime bosses.

Evidence presented at the commission revealed that Nkosi shared a vast array of internal police documents with Motsumi.

The shared materials reportedly included official fingerprint kits, internal audit documents, and detailed crime reports.

The questioning turned particularly sharp when the commission addressed a specific letter Nkosi shared with Motsumi.

The document contained the personal details of suspects and witnesses involved in a high-stakes case regarding the theft of chrome, firearms, and ammunition from a North West mine.

Commission Chairperson Mbuyiseli Madlanga pressed Nkosi on the sensitive nature of the information, leading to a tense confrontation.

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Mbuyiseli Madlanga: “At the time of writing, was this not a confidential SAPS document? Not at the time of sharing?”

Fannie Nkosi: “I don’t know if we can park and then…”

Madlanga: “No, no, no, Sergeant. I don’t know how many times you’ve said that. I’m asking you a question now, and I want a response now, please.”

Nkosi: “But I was never given an opportunity to park issues... maybe this time, can you give me an opportunity to park this one?”

Nkosi’s primary defence for the data breach was that Motsumi possesses an "interest in police affairs."

His reasoning was swiftly dismissed by the commission.

Co-commissioner Sesi Baloyi also characterised Nkosi's explanation as unsatisfactory, noting the severe security risks posed to the witnesses and suspects named in the leaked documents.

The commission continues to investigate the extent of the relationship between SAPS officials and figures within the criminal underworld.