Calvin Rafadi Rejects possible Move for Secret Testimony by SAPS General at Madlanga Commission
Forensic specialist Calvin Rafadi has strongly opposed the request for Lieutenant General Dumisani Khumalo to present further evidence in camera (behind closed doors) before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
Rafadi, whose name has been mentioned during testimony led by Gen. Khumalo, says he will be “deeply disappointed” if the Madlanga Commission allows any evidence implicating him to proceed in secrecy.
Calvin Rafadi has alleged a broken chain of custody relating to cellphones and WhatsApp data extraction connected to suspects in the so-called Big 5 drug cartel investigation as being further fabricated, tempered, and manipulated evidence.
Rafadi claimed that unaccredited black-market extraction software was used during the forensic process, which even resulted in many glitches, and deleted messages could not be recovered due to the software not being approved for SAPS digital forensic analysis.
Rafadi has firmly rejected the claims, labelling them fabrications based on speculation further contained in General Dumisani Khumalo’s thesis and not on factual evidence.
“My name has been dragged into this matter unfairly and without proof,” said Rafadi. “These accusations are being pushed by fictitious and rogue elements within SAPS law enforcement who are trying to discredit me just because they didn’t even verify my covert role in the kidnapping case of a Gauteng businessman. I refuse to allow false claims to go unchallenged behind closed doors.”
Rafadi says his reputation has been severely damaged by the allegations aired at the Madlanga Commission.
“My professional integrity has been attacked in public as General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is still a worshipped whistleblower. Other areas of my career that are being affected include students, academics, and even the security cluster. For that reason, I demand transparency. Any testimony referring to me must be heard openly and publicly, especially since I have always admitted that I know Mr. Vusi Matlala.”
Rafadi also questioned the logic of granting in camera proceedings, warning that delays and secrecy could undermine public trust.
“Even if proceedings are held privately, transcripts are still shared daily with parties served with notices under Rule 3 of the Judicial Commission Rules, which increases the risk of leaks by external or internal personnel. There is no point in secrecy on this subject. South Africans deserve to see the truth in full view.”
Rafadi believes the push for secrecy is being used to protect certain powerful individuals.
“The Madlanga Commission must not become a shield for rogue police units or those truly behind the Big 5 drug cartel, the public deserves to know why certain names are feared, protected, or avoided.”
He concluded by urging Justice Madlanga to act in the public interest and preserve the integrity of the Commission and public taxpayers’ millions of rands.
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, chaired by retired Constitutional Court Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, is investigating criminality, political interference, and corruption within the criminal justice and security sectors. The Commission is yet to decide on Gen. Khumalo’s application for in camera testimony.