The head of counter-intelligence within the SAPS Crime Intelligence division, Feroz Khan, has been at the centre of several controversies involving professional misconduct, political interference and private business interests. Khan, who joined the police service in 1991, has been accused of being a “political fixer” and politically protected.
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry and the Parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee have been urged to summon Khan to testify amid explosive allegations. This comes after KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, recently claimed that Khan received protection from senior politicians to shield him from investigations.
Feroz Khan’s Controversies
Khan has been involved in several high-profile cases, including a massive drug bust in 2021. He was accused of defeating the ends of justice and bringing the SAPS into disrepute for allegedly interfering with the investigation. However, Khan was acquitted of all charges in a disciplinary process in 2025.
According to the South African Police Service website, the vetting unit is responsible for conducting security clearances for police officers. However, Mkhwanazi described the vetting unit, under Khan, as a “dirty office” that allegedly uses its power to delay or obstruct security clearances for integrity officers while protecting others.
Allegations of Political Interference
Mkhwanazi also claimed that former Police Minister Bheki Cele pressured him to protect Khan during an investigation into the drug bust. Cele, however, denied allegations that he interfered in operational policing decisions, characterising his interactions as part of legitimate policy oversight.
Some of the key allegations against Khan include:
- Interfering with investigations to protect himself and others
- Using the vetting unit to delay or obstruct security clearances for integrity officers
- Having influence over the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) and other external networks
As the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry continues to investigate allegations of corruption and misconduct within the SAPS, Khan’s testimony is seen as crucial in uncovering the truth behind these claims.
