HOUGHTON — The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched a high-level investigation into the attempted assassination of suspended Crime Intelligence Deputy Head Feroz Khan following a shooting at his Houghton residence. Khan remains in critical condition at Milpark Hospital after being gunned down just days before he was scheduled to testify at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
The incident occurred late last night as Khan arrived at his home. According to reports, a white Mercedes Benz approached the silver Suzuki Khan was driving, and two shots were fired, striking him. He subsequently underwent surgery at Milpark Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment. Police tape continues to cordone off the scene as investigators work to piece together the events of the attack.
SAPS has deployed a massive investigative team to probe the shooting, classifying it as an attempted assassination. The investigation includes the Hawks, Crime Intelligence, SAPS Detective Services, and the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT). The acting national commissioner specifically requested the PKTT’s involvement. The task team, which has previously investigated alleged interference within the law enforcement system, will now focus on this high-profile attack.
The shooting comes at a critical time, as Khan was slated to appear before the Madlanga Commission on Wednesday. His legal team had been working through the weekend and late into the night to prepare for his testimony. Khan had previously attempted to use the courts to halt the commission’s processes and challenge the confiscation of his electronic devices, but ultimately committed to appearing to answer numerous allegations leveled against him and other police officials.
Among the allegations Khan was expected to address are claims made by Vumumuzi Matala. Following his arrest, Matala underwent a six-hour interrogation during which he named Khan. Matala alleged that Khan had asked for R2.5 million and was a key figure who assisted him in securing the Medicare 24 contract. Khan was expected to present his side of the story regarding these claims before the commission.
Security surrounding the Madlanga Commission has been a major point of contention, with several witnesses reporting severe threats. Suliman Karim, who testified before the commission, previously revealed that he, his family, and his 1,500 workers were threatened and urged not to appear. Consequently, multiple witnesses have applied to testify in camera to protect themselves and their families.
The timing and circumstances of the shooting have sparked speculation. Spokesperson Athlenda Mathe noted that it is highly unlikely anyone would go to such extreme lengths to fake their own assassination. However, she acknowledged that another commission witness, Brown Mogotsi, is currently facing court for allegedly staging his own assassination attempt, which has fueled public speculation regarding Khan’s incident. Furthermore, questions have been raised about the vehicle Khan was driving. Observers noted he typically drives a fleet of luxurious cars—a point previously highlighted by the KZN provincial commissioner in parliament, who stated there is no wealthy general like Khan. The fact that he was driving a modest silver Suzuki on the day of the attack has led to unfounded theories about the incident being staged.
Beyond the Medicare 24 contract allegations, Khan has been heavily involved in other high-profile cases. He was front and center during the Aeroton drug bust, appearing alongside Ebrahim Karda. Both generals have faced speculation regarding their involvement with the owners of the seized drugs. Both Khan and Karda are still pending their appearances before the Madlanga Commission to address the details surrounding that specific drug bust.
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