Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to uplift the precautionary suspension of National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola.
Masemola's precautionary suspension was lifted following the formal withdrawal of criminal charges against him and he is expected to resume his full duties on Monday, 19 October 2026.
The charges stem from allegations of contravention of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) which led to Masemola’s appearance in the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court.
Charges against Masemola were formally withdrawn following an instruction by National Prosecuting Authority Head, Advocate Andy Mothibi, in September.
In a statement on Friday, Cachalia also expressed appreciation to Lieutenant-General Puleng Dimpane for her service as Acting National Commissioner during Masemola’s suspension.
The Acting Minister said the Ministry remained committed to strengthening the South African Police Service (SAPS) through the Police Reset Agenda.
“The Ministry remains committed to strengthening the South African Police Service as we continue with the Police Reset Agenda, advancing professionalism, accountability, and ensuring that the organisation remains focused on its constitutional mandate to protect and serve all people in South Africa,” the statement read.
Cachalia noted that Masemola’s return allows police leadership to stay focused on key operational goals and continue building a professional, competent and trustworthy police force.
“The return of the National Commissioner provides an opportunity for the leadership of the SAPS to maintain focus on operational priorities and the ongoing work to build a professional, capable and trusted police service as per the Police Reset Agenda,” he said.
The Ministry said it remains committed to strengthening the South African Police Service as it continues with the Police Reset Agenda, advancing professionalism, accountability, and ensuring that the organisation remains focused on its constitutional mandate to protect and serve all people in South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za
