The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has suspended its reporter, Natasha Phiri, to investigate allegations that she received money to release information.
This comes after Sergeant Fannie Nkosi admitted, when testifying at the Madlanga Commission, that she paid him R500. Last week, the commission heard that Nkosi paid Phiri this money to get the number of wanted man Musa Khawula.
When the commission started testifying, Nkosi denied that he had paid Phiri for the information. However, on Monday, when he was faced with the evidence, he could not hide and agreed.
“Now you see, do you accept that you paid R500 to Natasha?” said Commissioner Sandile Khumalo. “I accept you,” replied the King.
The payment was made on November 6, 2024, the same day Phiri gave him Khawula’s number.
Advocate Matthew Chaskalson asked Nkosi to confirm that R500 is a token of appreciation for Khawula’s number, Nkosi held back and said he would confirm later after confirming their discussions.
“I am not avoiding this question, but I am of the opinion that the sources must be protected and their integrity,” he said.
After the testimony, the SABC issued a statement on Monday suspending Phiri from work. “The SABC considers this matter as a serious matter and has suspended Ms. Natasha Phiri to ensure that an investigation is carried out into this matter,” the agency said in a statement.