Officer testifies on stolen cocaine links to Hawks managers

Warrant Officer Karl Sander told the Madlanga Commission on Tuesday that the suspects who stole R200 million worth of cocaine from Hawks offices in KwaZulu-Natal are known and linked to unit managers.

Sander, who was attached to the Hawks in KwaZulu-Natal, said a Colonel Jacobs had identified the suspects to him. He added that the links between the thieves and Hawks management were known.

The commission also heard that an email from a police officer had invalidated a polygraph test that initially suggested Sander had been deceptive. Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga said this effectively exonerated the warrant officer. Sander broke down in tears during the session.

Other witnesses included Lieutenant Colonel Justice Jabulani Duma, who testified via audio, and forensic officers who addressed handling of the consignment intercepted at an Isipingo depot in 2021 before its theft from Port Shepstone. The inquiry continues.

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