Shadrack Sibiya, South Africa’s suspended deputy national police commissioner for crime detection, resigned as a disciplinary hearing against him was due to begin. His lawyers submitted the resignation at the start of proceedings on Monday, October 12.
Departure during disciplinary proceedings
A police spokesperson said Sibiya’s departure would be treated as a dishonourable discharge because disciplinary proceedings were under way. He had been suspended since September 2025. The resignation ends his service in the post but does not resolve the separate allegations or investigations involving him.
Sibiya is in custody following his arrest last month over allegations of rape and grooming involving a minor. He denies the accusations. His bail application had been postponed to October 13, the day after the resignation was tendered.
Separate corruption inquiry
The former deputy commissioner has also appeared before a judicial commission examining alleged corruption in the police service and alleged links between officers and organised crime. During the inquiry, he was accused of receiving cash and gifts from people described as criminals. Sibiya denied those claims in his testimony.
The allegations remain allegations, and no finding of guilt is established by the resignation or the ongoing proceedings. The criminal case, bail process and commission inquiry are distinct matters, each with its own evidence and procedures.
Leadership implications
The case comes amid broader scrutiny of policing and corruption in South Africa. The commission is examining claims about improper relationships inside law enforcement, while the charges against Sibiya raise separate questions that must be tested in court. Authorities have not announced in this account what further disciplinary or administrative steps will follow his departure.
The next public development was expected to be the bail hearing, while investigators and the commission continue their respective processes.
