The South African Police Service has confirmed the dismissal of Major General Feroz Khan, the suspended deputy head of crime intelligence, after he failed to appear before a disciplinary hearing.
Khan was deemed dismissed on 2 September in terms of Regulation 9(7)(b) of the SAPS Discipline Regulations following his failure to appear before the designated senior officer responsible for the expeditious disciplinary process.
Assassination attempt in Houghton
The dismissal comes just two months after Khan survived an assassination attempt in Houghton, Johannesburg, on 28 June. He was shot multiple times by gunmen travelling in a white vehicle whilst driving on 3rd Avenue at approximately 23:00. Khan was rushed to Netcare Milpark Hospital where he underwent emergency surgery and was initially reported to be in critical condition. He was discharged in mid-July and has since been recuperating at an undisclosed location.
The shooting occurred whilst Khan was scheduled to testify before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into criminality and corruption within the police force. SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe stated at the time that it was premature and irresponsible to speculate on the motive or any connection to the commission. The Political Killings Task Team was incorporated into the investigation alongside the Gauteng Hawks, Gauteng Crime Intelligence, and the SAPS Detective Service.
Medical certificate controversy at Madlanga Commission
Khan’s repeated failure to appear before the Madlanga Commission has been marred by controversy. On 02 September, the commission heard allegations that a medical certificate submitted by Khan to SAPS had been backdated and amended after it was initially received. Evidence leader Advocate Adila Hassim told the commission that the doctor who issued the original certificate alleged Khan’s son had requested the date change.
Due to concerns over the validity of his medical excuses, commission chairperson Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga postponed Khan’s testimony to 28 September with strict conditions. Khan must appear in person on that date unless he voluntarily undergoes an independent medical assessment by a specialist to be jointly selected by 08 September. A medical report must be submitted by 15 September confirming whether Khan is medically fit to testify.
Labour Court bid fails
Khan’s legal team, representing him through the Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union, had attempted to halt the disciplinary process through the Labour Court. On 31 August, Judge Connie Prinsloo struck the urgent application from the roll, ruling that the court lacked jurisdiction and that the matter did not meet the requirements for urgency. The court also ordered the union to pay SAPS legal costs.
Corruption charges and broader implications
Prior to the shooting, Khan was arrested in May alongside two others on charges including corruption and the unlawful possession of precious metals. He remains a central figure in the ongoing Madlanga Commission, which was established in July 2025 to investigate allegations of corruption, the infiltration of criminal syndicates into police structures, and political interference in investigations.
SAPS reiterated its commitment to accountability, discipline and professional conduct within the organisation. No member, regardless of rank or position, is above the law or the applicable disciplinary framework.
As the matter has been the subject of legal proceedings, SAPS will continue to respect and abide by the decisions of the courts and provide further information where legally permissible.
ALSO READ: High-level investigation launched after shooting of suspended crime intelligence boss
