National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola had four PFMA-related charges formally withdrawn at Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on 22 September 2026, after the NDPP ordered withdrawal following a formal review. He was charged on 16 April 2026 and placed on precautionary suspension, with his return to service awaiting a decision by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Investigation And Official Response

The NDPP instructed withdrawal following a formal review under the IDAC Reset Programme, the National Prosecution Authority confirmed. Advocates Andy Mothibi noted that the decision was taken after finding there were no reasonable prospects of a successful prosecution.

The charges were formally withdrawn on 22 September 2026 at the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court, according to IOL. Masemola told IOL, “I am eager to get back to work and serve the country, but I will still have to wait for the employer,” signalling his readiness to return pending official clearance.

Context, Implications, And Next Steps

The charges were linked to an alleged irregular R360 million SAPS health services tender awarded to Medicare24, a company associated with Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala, according to IOL. MG.co.za notes that the withdrawal raises questions about the separation of investigative and prosecutorial functions and the safeguards under IDAC oversight.

The NPA will refer the matter to the IDAC judge to determine whether the initial prosecution was correctly instituted or involved misconduct, as reported by MG.co.za. The next steps include the oversight review under IDAC and potential governance recommendations, with a further update anticipated in the coming weeks.