Former Crime Intelligence Head Richard Mdluli Loses Legal Aid Appeal

Richard Mdluli, the former Crime Intelligence boss, has faced another legal setback as his appeal for assistance from Legal Aid was denied. This comes amidst his ongoing corruption trial, where he and two co-accused face charges of fraud, theft, and corruption related to alleged misuse of police funds during their tenure from 2008 to 2012.

Mdluli sought assistance from Legal Aid after his legal representative, Ike Motloung, withdrew, citing insufficient funds. Legal Aid initially rejected his request, prompting Mdluli to file a review application. While Legal Aid provided an attorney for this review process, the application was ultimately dismissed.

Henry Mamothame, spokesperson for the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), confirmed that Mdluli intends to hire a private attorney to represent him in his trial.

Mdluli also faced another legal blow when his appeal to compel the South African Police Service (SAPS) to cover his legal fees was dismissed by the high court with costs.

Mdluli, along with former SAPS supply chain manager Heine Barnard and chief financial officer Solomon Lazarus, is accused of misusing the police’s secret slush fund. Key allegations include:

• Funding private trips to China and Singapore.
• Using witness protection houses for personal purposes.
• Leasing Mdluli’s private residence to the state to cover his bond.
• Misappropriating funds during a 2009 trip to Singapore for personal purchases, including electronics, clothing, and jewelry.

The allegations point to a pattern of financial misconduct and abuse of public resources.

Mdluli’s corruption trial is set to resume in the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria on April 14, 2025. The trial will address these serious allegations, which have drawn significant public attention.

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