SANDF intelligence brigadier and two co-accused in court over alleged R1.5m bribery bid

PRETORIA – A senior intelligence officer in the South African National Defence Force appeared in the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court on corruption charges linked to an alleged R1.5 million attempt to halt a criminal case, in a matter that prosecutors say raises concerns about interference in the justice system.

Brigadier General Johannes Prince Mkhabela, 53, who is attached to the SANDF Intelligence Division, appeared alongside his secretary, Joshua Thembi Hlungwani, 41, and his legal representative, Athinandavha Mannik Mulaudzi, 39. The trio face charges of corruption and defeating the administration of justice.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority, the allegations stem from events earlier this month while an investigating officer was probing an intimidation case involving Mkhabela.

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Prosecutors allege that on 7 February 2026, Hlungwani contacted the investigating officer, relaying that Mkhabela was prepared to pay R1.5 million to prevent the matter from proceeding to court. Two days later, Mulaudzi allegedly contacted the same officer to ask what amount would be required to have the case withdrawn.

The State further claims that on 13 February, Mkhabela met the investigating officer and allegedly paid R50 000 as a deposit, promising to settle the remainder by September 2026 in exchange for the destruction of the case docket. He was arrested shortly afterwards by members of the Madlanga Commission Task Team.
Hlungwani and Mulaudzi were arrested on 19 February after handing themselves over to the police.

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Hlungwani and Mulaudzi were each granted bail of R5 000. Their conditions include surrendering passports, refraining from contacting state witnesses, and not interfering with the investigation.
The State opposed bail for Mkhabela, arguing he poses a risk of committing further offences and could intimidate witnesses, particularly given the pending intimidation case against him. His bail application was postponed for judgment on 23 February 2026.

The matter returns to court next week for the bail ruling, with the investigation continuing.