Paul O'Sullivan to testify in person before parliamentary ad-hoc committee

Forensic investigator Paul O'Sullivan has agreed to appear in person before Parliament's Ad-Hoc Committee on Tuesday, 10 February 2026. The decision marks a significant breakthrough in a weeks-long standoff between the investigator and lawmakers.

The committee is currently investigating high-stakes allegations of corruption, political interference, and criminal infiltration within the South African Police Service (SAPS), sparked by claims made by KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

Security and virtual standoff

O'Sullivan's appearance follows a period of intense disagreement regarding the format of his testimony. The investigator, who has been outside South Africa for several weeks citing “urgent family business,” had previously requested to testify virtually or from a South African embassy abroad.

He cited “serious security concerns” and a lack of trust in certain committee members as reasons for his refusal to appear physically in Cape Town. His legal team had noted that O'Sullivan felt his life was at risk and even referred to certain members of the committee as “criminals” in previous correspondence.

Parliament issues subpoena threat

The Ad-Hoc Committee, chaired by Mr Molapi Soviet Lekganyane, remained firm in its demand for a physical appearance, arguing that all key witnesses must face the committee in person. The impasse reached a boiling point last week when:

• The committee resolved to subpoena O'Sullivan to compel his attendance.
• Opposition parties, including ActionSA, demanded the urgent finalisation of his testimony before the committee's looming February 20 deadline.
• The Speaker of Parliament intervened, urging the committee to formally consider the security risks and legalities before proceeding with a summons.

What to expect from the testimony

O'Sullivan is expected to provide a rebuttal to testimony previously heard by the committee. According to documents submitted earlier, his testimony is likely to focus on:

• Alleged “Capture” of SAPS: Claims of a covert slush fund linked to the Provincial Killings Task Team (PKTT) in KwaZulu-Natal.
• Property and financial misconduct: Allegations that senior SAPS officials used opaque financial arrangements to acquire high-value assets.
• Abuse of specialised units: Claims that crime-fighting units were used to target internal rivals and intimidate witnesses.

The hearing is scheduled to begin tomorrow morning. This testimony is viewed as critical to the committee's final report, which must be concluded within the next ten days.