PRETORIA - A major drug bust operation in Johannesburg has led to explosive testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
The commission heard on Friday how former JMPD superintendent Phineas Manyama allegedly instructed officers to release suspects and accept whatever money was offered in return.
READ | LIVE | JMPD corruption under the spotlight at Madlanga
Testifying at the commission Tactical Response Unit officer Michael Potsane said refusing the instruction came with threats of dismissal, arrest or even death.
He testified that he regarded the instruction as unlawful and did not comply with it.
''In summary, Superintendent Phineas Manyama instructed us on the day of the arrest and at the 25 July 2025 meeting to negotiate with the person to release the suspects, seize cocaine and to accept money or whatever is offered in exchange.
“When we refused, he threatened us with dismissals and warned that we could be injured, killed or arrested. He further prevented us from dealing with drug dealers without his prior knowledge and permission,” Potsane testified.