Introduction
The Madlanga Commission heard new testimony today as the Hawks explained how they carried out the Molefe Raid at KT Molefe’s residence. Officers walked the commission through the operation, describing the warrant, the early-morning entry, and the evidence they secured. The raid is tied to a larger corruption investigation involving alleged financial irregularities. Live updates on Lotus FM increased national attention, as the testimony could influence future legal action and determine whether investigators followed proper procedure.
What Happened
According to the Hawks, the Molefe Raid was executed soon after investigators received a signed search warrant. Officers approached the home at dawn, secured the yard, and announced their presence before entering. They told the commission that the operation followed national guidelines for high-risk searches. Once inside, officers photographed each room and began collecting items directly listed in the warrant. These included laptops, documents, mobile phones, and storage devices. Each piece of evidence was sealed and logged on-site to maintain full accountability.
What Officers Described
Officers said the Molefe Raid was carried out without confrontation. Investigators described how they briefed Molefe and explained the purpose of the search before collecting materials. The lead investigator said the team had prepared for various scenarios but found no resistance. The commission was told that standard protective measures were followed, including the use of gloves, cameras, and evidence bags with barcodes. Officers stressed that no areas outside the warrant were searched and that all actions were documented for legal review.
Evidence Presented to the Commission
During the hearing, the Hawks submitted summaries of what they recovered in the Molefe Raid. Evidence included digital devices believed to contain communication history, financial data, and electronic records linked to business dealings. Officers said investigators suspect several files may provide insight into money movement and decision-making patterns. Forensic specialists have started analysing the devices to extract deleted data, metadata, and encrypted content. The commission will later receive full forensic reports to compare against the testimony.
Questions From the Commission
Commission members pressed officers on planning, timing, and legal compliance. They asked how intelligence was gathered before the Molefe Raid, how long officers stayed on the property, and whether any items were disputed. Officials also questioned the structure of the evidence logs and how the chain of custody was maintained from the property to the forensic lab. The Hawks said every step was supervised by a senior officer. They added that the team was trained to avoid procedural errors that could weaken the investigation.
Public Reaction and Social Media Response
Public interest in the Molefe Raid increased immediately after the hearing began. Social media users debated whether the testimony revealed deeper corruption or simply confirmed earlier suspicions. Many expressed relief that the operation was now explained publicly, while others argued that more transparency is still needed. Lotus FM’s live broadcasts prompted real-time discussions, with listeners commenting on officer conduct, the scope of the evidence, and the likelihood of upcoming arrests. Analysts noted that the case continues to dominate online news cycles.
Why the Testimony Matters
The Molefe Raid is a crucial moment in the corruption probe, and the credibility of the investigation depends heavily on how officers executed the operation. The commission must decide whether the Hawks acted within the limits of the law and whether the collected evidence can be relied on in court. If testimony shows strong compliance, prosecutors gain leverage. If inconsistencies appear, the defence may challenge key findings. The hearing also influences public confidence in national anti-corruption efforts.
Official Responses
A spokesperson for the Hawks told reporters outside the venue that the agency “remains confident” in the integrity of the Molefe Raid. He said officers followed the warrant precisely and that all evidence was processed according to national standards. Commission officials said they will examine additional documents before releasing any conclusions. They confirmed that more witnesses, including analysts and administrative staff, will testify in the coming days. The commission emphasised that transparency is essential to public trust.
Forensic Analysis Underway
Digital forensic teams have begun reviewing the devices seized during the Molefe Raid. Specialists are scanning files for communication trails, irregular transactions, hidden folders, and potentially deleted content. Investigators expect the analysis to take several weeks due to encryption and the volume of data. Once the initial findings are prepared, the commission will hear technical testimony explaining how each device relates to the larger corruption allegations. The forensic stage is expected to play a key role in shaping the commission’s final assessment.
Media Coverage and National Attention
News outlets across South Africa continued to highlight the hearing throughout the day. Reporters focused on the Hawks’ timeline, the search procedures, and the description of evidence removed from the home. Journalists noted high attendance inside the commission room, with legal teams, civil-society members, and observers filling the space. Coverage from Lotus FM and online channels helped keep the public informed, contributing to strong national engagement with the Molefe Raid inquiry.
What Happens Next
The Madlanga Commission will continue reviewing testimony, documents, and forensic findings. More witnesses will appear to explain the links between seized materials and the corruption allegations under investigation. If any inconsistencies arise, the Hawks may be recalled for clarification. After all evidence is examined, the commission will prepare an interim report summarising its observations. A final report will follow, which may lead to criminal charges, disciplinary actions, or policy recommendations for future investigations.
