“It feels good to wear boots”: Mkhwanazi back on the frontline
KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has returned to active duty, proudly declaring, “It feels good to wear boots again.” After weeks of formal hearings at the Madlanga Commission and parliamentary inquiries, the seasoned law enforcement leader is back in uniform — leading crime-fighting operations on the ground.
From Parliament suits to the streets of KwaZulu-Natal
After appearing before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry and the Ad Hoc Committee in Parliament, Mkhwanazi has swapped his formal attire for tactical gear. The KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner said returning to the streets feels natural to him.
“I went to Parliament and did my thing. Now I am in the field, and I have my boots on. Mine is to fight crime,” Mkhwanazi told eNCA during an interview at a crime scene in Durban.
The interview followed a deadly shootout at a Waterfall complex, where two suspected armed robbers were killed during an early Tuesday morning operation. The incident highlighted Mkhwanazi’s ongoing commitment to leading from the front — not just administratively, but physically engaging in anti-crime efforts.
Political interference and the Madlanga Commission revelations
Mkhwanazi has been at the centre of national headlines since his explosive July 2025 media briefing, where he exposed political interference in the criminal justice system. His statements prompted President Cyril Ramaphosa to establish the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry — an independent investigation into alleged interference within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
While addressing the Commission, Mkhwanazi spoke candidly about the challenges within crime intelligence, revealing systemic corruption and operational inefficiencies. Despite the intense political scrutiny, he continues to focus on restoring integrity to policing in KwaZulu-Natal.
Read more about national inquiries and justice reform on eKayNews.co.za.
“It feels good to wear boots again”: Leading by example
Back in his police uniform, Mkhwanazi’s presence on the ground is symbolic. It represents a return to basics — proactive policing, visible leadership, and community protection.
“What they do in Parliament is they wear suits and do their thing. I am here, and mine is to fight crime,” he said.
The commissioner emphasized that real policing happens in the field, not just in boardrooms. His leadership style has earned him respect among rank-and-file officers who see his actions as proof of authentic commitment to law enforcement.
The Waterfall shootout was a result of an intelligence-led operation, a sign that collaboration between local units and intelligence officers can yield positive results when effectively managed.
Confronting challenges in crime intelligence
While celebrating operational success, Mkhwanazi acknowledged ongoing issues within SAPS Crime Intelligence. He noted that while field units perform well, problems persist at head office level.
“The problem is at the head office of Crime Intelligence. This is not the head office — this is the ground,” he remarked pointedly.
According to Mkhwanazi, the suspects involved in the Waterfall incident were part of a notorious gang linked to multiple cash-in-transit (CIT) heists and murders across the province.
“This gang kills without care — even children,” he said, describing how ruthless the criminals have become.
Mkhwanazi revealed that one of the men had previously been in custody for two years but managed to orchestrate the murder of witnesses, leading to his case being withdrawn.
“The murder of all the witnesses led to that case being withdrawn in court. This is a typical modus operandi he employed,” he explained.
For more on South African law enforcement updates, visit Crime Watch on eKayZone.
A legacy of service and accountability
Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s leadership embodies both courage and accountability. His decision to openly expose political interference while maintaining active operational duties underscores his dedication to the people of KwaZulu-Natal.
Many officers and citizens view his actions as a call for stronger ethics in policing and improved coordination between crime intelligence and frontline response units.
Through his hands-on approach, Mkhwanazi is sending a powerful message: law enforcement should always prioritize citizens’ safety over politics.
The importance of visible leadership in SAPS
Experts in policing have long emphasized that visible leadership is crucial for improving public trust. When commanders like Mkhwanazi engage directly with communities and officers, it motivates teams and strengthens accountability.
By returning to field operations, the KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner is reinforcing that leadership doesn’t just come from office decisions — it comes from standing shoulder to shoulder with the men and women risking their lives daily.
The road ahead for Mkhwanazi and SAPS
Despite structural challenges, Mkhwanazi’s renewed presence on the frontline offers hope. His stance against corruption and political interference has sparked a broader national conversation about reforming the crime intelligence sector.
Public sentiment suggests growing support for leaders who prioritize transparency and effectiveness. His return symbolizes resilience in the face of adversity — a reminder that even amid investigations and inquiries, law enforcement’s core mission remains to protect and serve.
Conclusion: Boots on the ground, mission renewed
“It feels good to wear boots”: Mkhwanazi back on the frontline is more than a statement — it’s a declaration of purpose. As Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi steps back into his operational role, he reminds South Africans of the value of authentic, accountable leadership.
His ongoing commitment to combating organized crime, rebuilding trust in crime intelligence, and standing firm against political pressure marks a defining moment for policing in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond.
As South Africa continues to demand transparency and safety, leaders like Mkhwanazi prove that change begins when those in charge are willing to get their boots dirty — and their hands to work.
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