All eyes on ‘Cat’ Matlala as he takes the stand at Madlanga Commission

Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala is scheduled to testify at the Madlanga Commission, in a hearing that IOL says is expected to probe allegations of fraudulent police tenders, corruption, the abuse of blue lights and claims that criminal networks operated with help from insiders in law enforcement.

Why his testimony matters

According to IOL, the commission has identified Matlala as a pivotal witness in its inquiry into claims that criminal syndicates infiltrated key state institutions and built relationships with senior law enforcement officials. The hearing resumes at 9:30am at the Brigitte Mabadla Justice College in Pretoria.

Allegations outlined to the commission

IOL reports that evidence from earlier hearings has repeatedly linked Matlala to senior members of the South African Police Service (SAPS). Specific allegations before the commission include claims that Matlala:

• gifted Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya a herd of impala;
• advanced a R70,000 cash loan to alleged organised crime figure Richard Shibiri;
• gave money and gifts to SAPS quality management section head Rachel Matjeng;
• used his influence to win lucrative government tenders, access confidential police documents and influence arrests.

Response recorded at the commission

On the allegation concerning gifts to Rachel Matjeng, IOL reports her response to the inquiry.

She denied the gifts were bribes, telling the commission they were exchanged during a romantic relationship.

What to expect

IOL says Matlala’s in-person testimony is expected to be among the commission’s most closely watched hearings. The commission will continue to scrutinise the claims as part of its wider investigation into corruption and criminal syndicates within state institutions.