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FILE| Chairperson and commissioners at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry in Pretoria.
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has heard how more than 20 bags containing illicit drugs allegedly fell from a container when law enforcement officers opened it.
This emerged during testimony by Gauteng Hawks Unit Commander Francois Steyn.
He told the commission that despite claims made by police officers who were at the scene, no photographic evidence was produced.
MADLANGA COMMISSION | Col Francois Steyn has wrapped up his testimony. SABC News anchor Thembekile Mrototo and reporter Canny Maphanga unpack his evidence and key revelations. pic.twitter.com/cgMc50LaUe
— SABC News (@SABCNews) May 11, 2026
Steyn was testifying about the 2021 theft of narcotics in Aeroton, Johannesburg.
A new witness is expected to be called on Tuesday.
Steyn says that photographs should have been taken before the container was opened.
“What should have happened is that the seals and the sealed containers should have been photographed first and foremost, then when it’s opened, and these things fall out, everyone moved back and let’s photograph what happened here now, and each step of the way should have been photographed.”
Video | Hawks’ Steyn alleges SAPS members interfered with Aeroton drug bust investigation:
WATCH | Security strategist Andy Mashaile says containment at the July 2021 Aeroton Scania drug bust scene in Johannesburg, where 715kg of cocaine was discovered, was intentional. His remarks follow Colonel Francois Steyn’s testimony at the Madlanga Commission today. pic.twitter.com/cYhJpsGNDj
— SABC News (@SABCNews) May 11, 2026
