A leaked audio recording allegedly involving KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has raised questions about police conduct and the handling of a criminal investigation involving musician Paul ‘Tsaka’ Madubanya.
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The recording, obtained by Sunday World, captures Mkhwanazi allegedly speaking to investigator Captain Phaladi Makola about the possibility of adding charges against Tsaka, who is facing a crimen injuria case over alleged insults made during a broadcast on Thobela FM.
In the conversation, Nhlanhla appears to suggest that Tsaka should be made an example of following remarks that also targeted President Cyril Ramaphosa and Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga.
The exchange has drawn attention because of questions about whether senior police officials should influence decisions in an active criminal investigation.
Exclusive: Leaked call reveals Mkhwanazi wanted musician who insulted him ‘taught a lesson’ | By Mawande Amashabalala
A recording obtained by Sunday World reveals the KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner, Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, discussing possible criminal charges against a musician who insulted him and his wife. Mkhwanazi denies abusing his authority.Read more: https://t.co/ulMXfPi4ta
— Sunday World News (@SundayWorldZA) November 11, 2026
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Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi discusses possible additional charges
In the recording, Nhlanhla allegedly questions whether the insults directed at him and his wife could be included in the existing case or pursued separately.
He also tells Phaladi that bringing more cases against Tsaka could serve as a warning to others.
“I think the more cases that are brought to him, the more others are going to learn a lesson from it,” Nhlanhla is allegedly heard saying.
It is later added that he realised the musician had allegedly insulted other prominent people and needed to be taught a lesson.
Phaladi allegedly responds during the conversation and explains that the insults involving Nhlanhla, Ramaphosa and Madlanga were not included in the existing case, although they had reportedly been raised in connection with the State’s opposition to Tsaka’s bail application.
Police deny abuse of power
Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe defended Nhlanhla, saying the conversation should be understood in the context of the alleged insults and threats directed at him and his wife.
Mathe said it was not unusual for senior police officers to communicate about policing matters and ongoing investigations.
She also maintained that Nhlanhla was a victim in the matter and had the right to report alleged criminal conduct.
According to the police spokesperson, there was no instruction to unlawfully arrest, intimidate, victimise or interfere with Tsaka or the investigation.
Athlenda further said Nhlanhla’s comments about making an example of the musician should be understood within the context of the conversation and the alleged conduct.
Public reaction divided over the recording
The leaked conversation has sparked different reactions, particularly around the question of how police officials should respond to insults and criticism.
Some social media users have defended Nhlanhla, arguing that public figures should not be allowed to make threatening or abusive remarks without consequences.
Others have raised concerns about the possibility of a senior police official influencing an investigation involving someone accused of insulting him personally.
The debate has also highlighted the distinction between an individual’s right to report alleged criminal conduct and the responsibility of police officials to ensure investigations are handled impartially.
Featured image: Gallo Images/Frennie Shivambu
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