Self-proclaimed prophet Shepherd Bushiri has made explosive allegations against top South African security officials, including a Hawks general he identified as “Sibiya,” following a court victory in Malawi.
Bushiri and his wife, Mary, expressed relief after the Malawi High Court ruled their extradition to South Africa unlawful and unconstitutional.
The Lilongwe Magistrate’s Court had approved their extradition on 12 March 2025 to face fraud and money laundering charges involving R102 million.
The couple had fled to Malawi in November 2020, shortly after being granted R200 000 bail each.
South Africa submitted an extradition request in December 2020.
Bushiri mentions allegations of extortion and threats
During a Friday night service at the Enlightened Christian Gathering (ECG), Bushiri described years of legal battles, smear campaigns, and threats against him and his family.
He claimed that in 2016, four Hawks members approached him demanding R12 million as a “protection fee” to allow him and his family to remain in South Africa.
Bushiri said police vehicles and even a helicopter appeared at his church after he refused to pay.
He claimed that a senior police official warned him of a dangerous cartel and suggested beefing up security.
Later, he connected him with other high-ranking officials, including a former minister and a member of the State Security Agency.
Sibiya allegedly involved in Bushiri’s corruption claims
Bushiri alleged that the financial demands escalated over time and implicated a “general Sibiya” in the Hawks.
He claimed his team collected large sums of money purportedly to resolve the case.
Bushiri said he approached an intelligence officer, who referred him to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid).
He claimed an Ipid case was opened, but that someone from the National Prosecuting Authority allegedly tipped off the officers he accused, leading to his arrest instead.
He also recounted assassination attempts, including one at a Sandton petrol station in February 2020, which prompted his move to Malawi.
Bushiri insisted that fleeing was a matter of seeking justice, not escaping it.
South African Government Responds
Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi said the South African government is reviewing the Malawi High Court ruling to determine its next steps.
A statement from the Ministry of Justice said South Africa remains committed to pursuing all legal avenues. Reaffirming the importance of judicial independence and continued diplomatic cooperation with Malawi.
