Suspended TMPD Deputy Chief denies conflict of interest

Suspended Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) Deputy Chief, Umashi Dhlamini, has denied any conflict of interest regarding his role as a senior traffic officer and his family’s ties to the taxi industry. Dhlamini made these assertions during his appearance before the Madlanga Commission.

Dhlamini returned to the hot seat this week following his suspension last month. His removal from office came after he was implicated in testimony regarding his alleged involvement in the rigging of a R2.9 billion tender alongside Sergeant Fannie Nkosi.

READ: TMPD deputy chief Umashi Dhlamini suspended

Evidence leaders grilled Dhlamini on his connection to his family’s taxi operations, as well as his personal relationships with prominent taxi bosses Mswazi Msibi and Joe Sibanyoni.

Despite the scrutiny, Dhlamini maintained that he has no direct involvement in the business, claiming it is owned and managed exclusively by his brothers.

"I am not directly involved with them, and whatever they run, they comply. I don’t interfere with anything," Dhlamini testified.

The Commission highlighted the potential for bias given Dhlamini’s senior position within the TMPD. Commission representative Chaskelson noted the inherent overlap between Dhlamini’s professional duties and his family’s commercial interests.

"Your department deals with all traffic law infringement notices in the city," Chaskelson stated. "Now, that is a matter of particular interest for the taxi industry."