Stuart James Scharnick Arrested Outside Madlanga Commission

Businessman Stuart James Scharnick has been taken into police custody outside the venue of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry in Pretoria.

The arrest occurred at the Brigitte Mabandla Justice College following an incident during a tea break in the inquiry proceedings. Scharnick allegedly confronted and threatened Sowetan reporter Herman Moloi after the journalist recorded video and took photographs of him interacting with witness and suspended Member of Parliament Fadiel Adams.

Following the confrontation, Moloi filed an official criminal case of intimidation with the South African Police Service officers stationed at the venue. Law enforcement officers then intervened and took Scharnick into custody outside the building.

Representatives from Sowetan condemned the incident, emphasizing that reporters must be allowed to cover public interest matters without fear or harassment. Commission officials also acknowledged the arrest, stating that threats against journalists covering the proceedings will not be tolerated.