UNLAWFUL AMMUNITION: Former top cop Mphego’s path, from Selebi and Zuma scandals to ammo accused

Former police general Mulangi Mphego has been released on bail after being accused of unauthorised possession of ammunition. Before his arrest this week, his name had surfaced in various controversies, including an investigation into a murdered policeman and others involving ex-president Jacob Zuma and disgraced top cop Jackie Selebi.

Former high-ranking police officer Mulangi Mphego has been released on bail after his arrest in a case of unlawful possession of ammunition, adding to several controversies over the years.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) announced his arrest on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, and a few hours later, Mphego appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court, where he was released on R5,000 bail.

He was accused of unlawfully possessing more than 100 rounds of ammunition, found when his home was searched earlier this year.

[WATCH] Former SAPS Crime Intelligence head Mulangi Mphego has been granted R5000 bail. He appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court, facing a charge of unlawful possession of ammunition seized during a July 2026 raid at his Centurion home. #Newzroom405 https://t.co/fVZvoSY2vQ

According to a National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) statement also issued on Tuesday, “Further investigation revealed that the ammunition recovered during the search allegedly belonged to the State and was manufactured specifically for use by the SAPS.

“Mphego is alleged to have owned the ammunition without the required permit or authorisation.”

During his appearance, the court heard that he had no previous convictions or pending criminal cases.

The State did not oppose Mphego’s bail and the case was postponed to 3 November 2026.

Beyond this developing saga, Mphego’s name is linked to other notable matters spanning many years and involving high-profile law enforcers and presidential figures.

The SAPS statement about Mphego’s arrest on Tuesday did not initially name him — it named another police officer.

The statement said that the arrest of a 56-year-old former police general “follows a search and seizure operation conducted at his home in Centurion on 6 July 2026”.

It added: “During the operation, investigators also seized documents and electronic devices believed to be relevant to the investigation into the murder of Lieutenant General Sindile Mfazi.”

Mfazi was the deputy national police commissioner for crime detection, who died in 2021.