Matlala grilled at Madlanga Commission over Maumela link and R4m payment trail

Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala returned to the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry for the fourth day of his testimony, where his relationship with businessman Hangwani Maumela and a disputed R4 million payment trail were central lines of questioning.

Delay to begin testimony

Before proceedings started, Matlala’s lawyer, Anneline van der Heever, asked for an hour’s delay to go over documents with her client.

Links to taxi bosses and the Big Five allegations

Matlala faced intense questioning over his ties to taxi bosses Jotham “King Mswazi” Msibi and Steve Motsumi. The questioning came amid allegations that some figures in the taxi industry have connections to the so-called Big Five crime cartel.

Focus on Maumela and the R4m payment

Matlala’s dealings with Maumela prompted further scrutiny. Advocate Mahlape Sello pressed Matlala about his role in introducing Msibi to Maumela and about his involvement in communications relating to payments.

When challenged about an alleged R4 million payment, Matlala said, “I do not know what that payment was for.”

Evidence and confrontation

The commission confronted Matlala with material suggesting he had sent Msibi proof of payments and had directed him to bank accounts where Maumela had allegedly indicated funds should be deposited.

The inquiry continues.