The South African Police Service (SAPS) has relaunched its investigation into Lieutenant-General Sindile Mfazi’s July 2021 death, now formally treating it as murder after new evidence suggested possible poisoning with a highly toxic resin, SAPS spokesperson Athlenda Mathe confirmed. Previously reported as COVID-19 complications, Mfazi’s death is being re-examined in light of his sensitive work probing SAPS Crime Intelligence fund misuse relating to the Phala Phala burglary.

Raids And Persons Of Interest Identified

Police raided four properties, including two residential and two office premises in Centurion and Pretoria, in early July 2026 as part of the reopened investigation. According to Mathe, officers are currently questioning “a number of persons of interest” in connection with the case, though identities have not been released.

The SAPS Cold Case Unit’s active approach follows persistent allegations from Mfazi’s family that he was deliberately poisoned during his service as deputy national commissioner. “We have raided four premises, two offices and two residential premises, and investigations are ongoing,” Mathe stated. Former Crime Intelligence head Mulangi Mphego, named in certain accusations, has denied allegations he raided Mfazi’s home or removed Phala Phala files.

Family, Political, And Police Implications

Family members, led by Mfazi’s widow Lindelwa, have long insisted that the initial COVID-19 diagnosis masked the true cause of death and publicly criticised the SAPS for slow progress. “The silence about the way that he died was very traumatising and killing us inside,” Lindelwa Mfazi said at a recent briefing.

At the time of his death, Mfazi was conducting inquiries into irregular SAPS Crime Intelligence expenses, reportedly tied to the high-profile Phala Phala burglary investigation. Unverified reports have circulated claiming that files disappeared from his home, but these claims have not been confirmed independently. The case has reignited public scrutiny over police accountability and the protection of whistleblowers within law enforcement ranks.

Authorities plan to provide updated information as the murder probe continues, with further developments expected as new evidence emerges and additional individuals are interviewed.