The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) has moved to shut down rumours circulating on social media claiming it has issued a J50 warrant of arrest for KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
In a statement, the anti-corruption unit said it noted the claims “with serious concern” and dismissed them as entirely false.
“This information is false and dismissed with the contempt it deserves,” said IDAC spokesperson Henry Mamothame.
IDAC believes the rumours are intended to disrupt ongoing anti-corruption efforts and undermine confidence in law enforcement.
“These rumours are clearly started to disrupt and distract the work of IDAC, as well as the responsibilities that Gen Mkhwanazi is discharging in the fight against crime,” Mamothame said.
Mkhwanazi has remained a prominent figure in South Africa’s policing landscape, often at the forefront of high-profile crime-fighting operations, making any claims surrounding his alleged arrest particularly sensitive.
The directorate has urged the public to be cautious of misinformation spread online, warning that false narratives can be used to destabilise institutions and discredit law enforcement agencies.
“Members of society are urged to be vigilant against false information circulated on social media platforms, aimed at destabilising and discrediting law enforcement in the country,” the statement read.
The clarification comes as authorities continue efforts to combat corruption and serious crime, amid growing concerns over the impact of misinformation on public trust.