Khan, Kadwa and Downes Back in Court Over Precious Metals Case

The high-stakes case against suspended Crime Intelligence deputy head Feroz Khan, Gauteng Hawks head Major-General Ebrahim Kadwa, and businessman Tariq Downes is scheduled to return to the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 2 September 2026, as the State continues to build its case against the trio over an alleged scheme involving precious metals. The matter has drawn intense scrutiny due to the seniority of the accused and the nature of the allegations, which strike at the heart of law enforcement integrity.

The three were arrested in May and subsequently released on R20,000 bail each after a brief court appearance. They face charges including fraud, theft, and defeating the ends of justice, stemming from allegations that they were involved in an illicit operation related to the handling and disposal of precious metals. Details of the scheme remain under wraps, but investigators have indicated that the accused used their positions and networks to facilitate the illegal movement of valuable materials while obstructing official investigations.

Wednesday’s hearing is expected to focus on further disclosure of evidence and the possible setting of a trial date. The State has indicated that it will be calling multiple witnesses, including forensic accountants and police investigators, to testify about the complex financial and logistical trail left by the alleged operation.

All three accused have maintained their innocence, with their legal teams arguing that the charges are unfounded and that their clients have been unfairly targeted. The court has reiterated the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, and the case is likely to be protracted given the volume of evidence to be examined.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the case continues to raise uncomfortable questions about corruption and oversight within South Africa’s law enforcement agencies. For now, the trio remains out on bail, with the next court date expected to provide a clearer indication of whether the case will proceed to trial or face further delays.

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