ActionSA mayoral candidate for Ekurhuleni, Councillor xolani khumalo, plans to voluntarily surrender to the South African Police Service (SAPS) following reports of an impending arrest on assault charges. The charges stem from an incident involving a suspected drug dealer in 2025, which ActionSA alleges is a retaliatory action by criminals and “rogue police officers.”
Alleged Assault Charges and Police Response
ActionSA spokesperson Matthew George stated that Khumalo will hand himself over to police on Monday, characterizing the move as a response to continued harassment following his efforts to combat crime in Ekurhuleni. George claims corrupt elements within SAPS often prioritize the freedom of criminals over the safety of those actively fighting crime.
2025 Drug Bust and Subsequent Allegations
The current situation originates from a police operation in Katlehong in 2025, where Khumalo was present during a raid on the residence of a suspected drug dealer.Police discovered unlicensed ammunition and arrested the suspect, but the suspect was later released, and the ammunition was returned.The suspect then filed a false assault charge against Khumalo.
George alleges the suspect is involved in a drug-dealing network connected to members of SAPS, a matter ActionSA and Khumalo are actively investigating with law enforcement.
Concerns Over Drug Dealing and Systemic Corruption
ActionSA claims Khumalo uncovered a drug dealer selling narcotics to schoolchildren during a recent by-election campaign in Etwatwa. The suspect was apprehended with drugs but was never formally charged, further illustrating what George describes as systemic corruption within the criminal justice system.
ActionSA plans to accompany khumalo when he surrenders to police as a show of solidarity.