The Hawks cocaine theft South Africa case has taken a dramatic turn as former Hawks head Seswantsho Lebeya testified before the Madlanga Commission. Retired National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI/Hawks), Lieutenant‑General Seswantsho Godfrey Lebeya, has testified before the Madlanga Commission, contradicting former KwaZulu‑Natal Hawks boss Lesetja Senona over the handling of 541kg of cocaine valued at approximately R200 million.
Organized Crime Links to Hawks Cocaine Theft South Africa
Lebeya told the Commission he only learned that the Port Shepstone storage facility had been broken into after the drugs were stolen. He stated he was unaware that Senona had been given keys, including spares, to the facility.
Senona previously testified that he had informed Lebeya about moving the drugs to Port Shepstone. Evidence leader Advocate Lee Segeels‑Ncube confronted Lebeya with the conflicting accounts, saying:
“Because it’s either that General Senona is lying, or you’re lying, or you’re both mistaken about what transpired.”
Lebeya declined to accuse Senona of lying, insisting he could not recall being told about the storage arrangements.
Background of the Case
The cocaine consignment was recovered from a shipping container at Durban harbour in June 2021 before being moved to Port Shepstone. The theft has raised serious questions about negligence and accountability within the Hawks.
Both Lebeya and Senona face scrutiny over their roles. While suspicions of involvement have been raised, negligence in handling the consignment remains a possible explanation. The Commission is investigating whether their actions could lead to arrests, fines, or even the suspension of retirement benefits.
Organized Crime Links
The name of alleged drug dealer and kidnapping kingpin Timmy Marimuthu surfaced during testimony. Hawks Lieutenant Colonel Deena Govender alleged that Lebeya instructed officers to meet with Marimuthu. Lebeya denied direct involvement, saying he only became aware of Marimuthu’s name during investigations into Crime Intelligence appointments.
The Commission is urged to subpoena Marimuthu to clarify his role, as suspicions remain that insider information may have enabled the theft.
Ongoing Investigation
The case highlights deep concerns about organized crime and the integrity of law enforcement in South Africa. With 541kg of cocaine potentially back on the streets, the Commission faces pressure to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable.
Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga and his colleagues continue cross‑examinations, with the Commission expected to pursue perpetrators linked to the Port Shepstone facility.