South Africa’s police force has sacked suspended Crime Intelligence deputy head Major-General Feroz Khan, but this move will not affect the separate criminal proceedings against him.
After failing to show up at the disciplinary hearing conducted by the senior official presiding over Khan’s accelerated disciplinary proceeding, the officer has been declared dismissed from the ranks of the South African Police Service (SAPS).
This follows an earlier blow to Khan this week when his urgent application to stop the disciplinary hearing was dismissed from the Labour Court docket.
So, what next for Khan’s criminal case, with the dismissal of this officer from his post?
Why Was Feroz Khan Dismissed by SAPS?
SAPS stated that Khan was dismissed in terms of Regulation 9 of their Discipline Regulations because he did not appear before the designated senior officer handling his disciplinary matter.
The disciplinary case against him involved allegations of misconduct and conduct which was alleged to have brought the police service into disrepute. His dismissal followed his failed legal battle in the Labour Court.
According to SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the police service continues to uphold professionalism and accountability by emphasizing that none of its members is above the disciplinary regime applicable to them.
According to Khan’s legal team, they are going to contest his dismissal.
Would The Dismissal Of Khan Bring An End To The Criminal Case Against Him?
No.
Khan’s dismissal and his criminal case are two different things legally speaking.
He faces criminal charges along with Gauteng Hawks head Major-General Ebrahim Kadwa and businessman Tariq Downes.
It is alleged that the accused had some involvement in the management of a businessman with an unwrought gold bar. Khan, along with his co-accused, maintains their innocence and is still out on bail.
Since the criminal trial is proceeding through the courts, it is not contingent upon Khan’s continued employment with SAPS.
His termination may spell the end of his career in the police force, but it does not automatically discharge, suspend, or negate any criminal charges brought against him.
The criminal case has been adjourned until November 27, 2026, owing to defense counsel’s objection regarding outstanding prosecution documentation and disclosure.
What will happen to Khan’s Bail?
The dismissal of Khan does not automatically mean his bail would be revoked.
The bail is determined by the criminal court and according to the conditions of the criminal proceeding.
So, unless the court alters those conditions in some way, Khan’s criminal case could go forward despite not being in custody anymore.
Nevertheless, his change of employment situation could affect his case, especially now that he is not an SAPS officer anymore.
What’s Going on with the Madlanga Commission?
Khan’s sacking does not exempt him from appearing at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
This commission is probing complaints relating to corruption, criminal interference and political meddling in South Africa’s criminal justice system.
Khan has been summoned to testify after his name came up in evidence that was presented to the inquiry.
According to the official transcript of the commission, evidence regarding the allegations of relationships, political meddling and others involving Khan has been presented publicly, but stressing that these are allegations and not guilt.
His much awaited testimony has been put off several times.
Why Has Khan’s Madlanga Testimony Been Delayed?
Khan failed to give his testimony on the 1st of September, 2026, since his legal team said that he was suffering from a medical condition.
His testimony has been deferred until the 28th of September, 2026, at 9:30 am.
There have been stipulations to this deferral.
Khan has been asked to submit his outstanding statement by the 18th of September. Khan will be able to skip giving his testimony on the 28th of September only if he goes through an independent medical evaluation by the 8th of September and the agreed-upon doctor finds that he is unable to give his testimony.
These actions by the commission have been taken following concerns which had been raised regarding the medical documents presented for Khan. These were presented by Advocate Adila Hassim, leader of evidence.
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