KZN Correctional Services Commissioner Mnikelwa Nxele Released on R50,000 Bail Following Arrest

Pietermaritzburg – The suspended KwaZulu-Natal Regional Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services, Mnikelwa Nxele, has appeared in the Pietermaritzburg Magistrate’s Court to face charges of corruption.

Nxele’s arrest followed a referral to the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) by the Hawks, an elite crime-fighting unit.

His alleged corrupt activities were brought to light by Angelo Agrizzi during the Zondo Commission, which concluded in June 2022.

After the Hawks conducted an investigation into BOSASA contracts estimated at around R20 million, the case was handed over to IDAC.

Earlier today, on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, Nxele appeared in court and was granted bail of R50,000, subject to stringent conditions.

Reports indicate that the suspended commissioner accepted bribes of about R100,000 each month while serving as the chairperson of the Special Bid Adjudication Committee in KwaZulu-Natal.

It is alleged that fraudulent financial activities were executed through Zogoba Trust, which he set up to conceal the transfer of funds, in addition to assets obtained through illegal means.

The funds were purportedly used for purchasing properties and for gambling in various casinos across the country.

Moreover, Nxele is alleged to have failed to submit his financial disclosures to the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA).

His case has been postponed until 16 September 2026 for the application of the centralisation certificate with the National Director of Public Prosecutions.