SAPS dismisses Brigadier Rachel Matjeng over misconduct findings

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has dismissed Brigadier Rachel Matjeng after an internal disciplinary process found her guilty of multiple counts of serious misconduct linked to her relationship with alleged underworld figure Cat Matlala.

Acting commissioner says outcome reinforces zero tolerance for corruption

According to a SAPS statement, the dismissal took effect on 30 June 2026. Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane welcomed the outcome, describing it as an important step in protecting the integrity of the police service.

#sapsHQ [ACTING NATIONAL COMMISSIONER WELCOMES THE DISMISSAL OF BRIGADIER RACHEL MATJENG]

The Acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, has welcomed the dismissal of Brigadier Rachel Matjeng from the #SAPS with effect… pic.twitter.com/4YlHScfkwT

SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) July 1, 2026

‘The outcome sends a clear message that corruption, criminality and any form of collusion with criminals have no place within the South African Police Service,’ said Dimpane.

Charges listed by SAPS

SAPS said Matjeng was found guilty on the following counts:

•  Accepting gratification
• Money laundering
• Improper conduct by advising Cat Matlala against the interests of the South African Police Service
• Conduct prejudicial to the administration of SAPS by providing Matlala with a list containing details of SAPS members with the intention of deriving a financial benefit
• Dishonesty

The case has attracted significant public interest as scrutiny over accountability within South Africa’s law enforcement agencies continues. Cases involving senior-ranking officers are often viewed as a measure of the police service’s willingness to address corruption within its own ranks.

SAPS said the disciplinary outcome reinforces its commitment to tackling criminality both inside and outside the organisation. The dismissal was also shared by crime and security journalist Yusuf Abramjee shortly after the police statement was released.