Witness F’s Chats Expose Potential Sale of 750 Guns With Former Deputy President’s Nephew, SA Reacts
- Witness F testified before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry about a potential sale of firearms
- The evidence leader presented chats between the anonymous witness and a nephew of a former deputy president
- South Africans raised concerns about the involvement of police in illegal gun trading and public safety
Source: Twitter
Byron Pillay, a Briefly News journalist, has dedicated a decade to reporting on the South African political landscape, crime, and social issues. He spent 10 years working for the Northern Natal Courier before transitioning to online journalism.
GAUTENG – Witness F has sparked a debate online after testifying before the Madlanga Commission about an alleged arms deal involving the nephew of a former deputy president.
The witness, previously identified as Sergeant Fannie Nkosi, testified virtually on 3 February 2026, after his attempts to secure another postponement were rejected.
During his testimony, the witness was first questioned by evidence leader Matthew Chaskalson about messages between him and Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala. Chaskalson then introduced evidence of other WhatsApp chats between Witness F and someone saved as Comrade DD Mabuza, Deputy President.
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What were the chats about?
The message from DD Mabuza was centred around the selling of weapons and included a photo of the firearm and prices. He confirmed that the message referred to the sale of 750 firearms. Witness F also claimed that it was not the former deputy president, despite the name being saved that way, but was actually his nephew, Siphiwe Mabuza.
“Hey brother, do you have a market for a compact CQC (Close Quarter Combat) 12-gauge shotgun, manufactured in South Africa.
“I have access to 750 units in knock down component form ready for shipping with matching flash bang ammo at family price,” the one message read.
Witness F replied to the message, saying that he needed to see and test it first, but then told the commissioners that he never did, and so the deal did not proceed.
Despite being a member of the South African Police Service (SAPS), Witness F confirmed that he didn’t question, report or confirm the legality of the firearms in question.
Source: Getty Images
South Africans react to Witness F’s chats
Social media users reacted with a mix of shock, anger and a deep sense of betrayal, as they weighed in on the contents of the chats.
Simphiwe Jeje Bakajana said:
“That’s why his attorney didn’t want him to answer questions about his WhatsApp messages.”
Wilson Mojaki Mpeke asked:
“What movie is this? I respect General Mkhwanazi because he didn’t have to expose anyone, but he did it anyway for the sake of South Africans and the world.”
Mick Bruin stated:
“So glad the truth is coming out. Secrets are being revealed under these circumstances.”
Elvis Tlou Mokwele I noted:
“It actually now makes sense why we have so many guns in the hands of stupid people. Police are in the business of selling guns to the public.”
Masixole Ngcube agreed:
“Cape Flats people have been asking where these guns come from. Now we are starting to connect the dots.”
Anna-Marie JC le Roux questioned:
“A SAPS active member investigating CIT crimes, but also involved in gun trading?”
Witness F ordered to testify before commission
Briefly News reported that Witness F was ordered to testify before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry virtually.
His lawyer requested that his testimony be postponed, three days after they were granted an initial adjournment.
Witness F is linked to the suspended Deputy Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya.
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Source: Briefly News
