South Africa's deputy police chief has stepped down three weeks after facing charges related to sexual offences. Lt Gen Shadrack Sibiya's legal representative submitted his resignation letter during his disciplinary hearing on Monday, according to a police spokesperson. The force has classified his departure as a dishonourable discharge.
Sibiya faces five charges in total. According to court proceedings, these include three counts of sexually grooming a child, one count of trafficking in persons, and one count of rape. The allegations centre on his interactions with a 16-year-old girl and an 18-year-old woman. Sibiya has denied all charges, though he acknowledges having consensual sexual relations with the 18-year-old.
The State's case at bail hearings alleged that Sibiya communicated with the 16-year-old via WhatsApp between 20 July and 3 August 2026 and possessed and distributed explicit images and videos of her. Prosecutors also presented evidence of alleged witness interference, including allegations that Sibiya threatened the father of the 16-year-old complainant, with an audio recording of the confrontation played in court. Additionally, the State alleged that a complainant was offered money to drop the charges. These allegations have not been tested at trial.
Sibiya has remained in custody since his arrest three weeks ago, after his bail application was denied. Prosecutors cited possible witness interference and escape risk in opposing his release.
Background to the charges
Sibiya was placed on special leave in July 2025 and subsequently suspended in September 2025 following allegations that emerged during the Madlanga Commission, a major public inquiry into corruption and collusion within the police service. The commission, which began in September 2025, has examined widespread allegations of misconduct within the force.
Beyond the sexual offence charges, Sibiya faces a separate disciplinary matter. This includes allegations that he shared confidential police information, encouraged alleged criminal associate Vusimusi "Cat" Matlala to open a case against police officers, and received 20 impalas from Matlala in exchange for a police contract. These disciplinary allegations form part of the broader corruption inquiry.
What happens next
Sibiya's bail application was scheduled to resume on Tuesday, 13 October, following the State's presentation of its case. A disciplinary hearing has been scheduled for 6–9 November to address the separate allegations of misconduct and corruption.
