Law Enforcement Figures Linked to Underworld Tycoon in Explosive Madlanga Commission Revelations

Underworld Tycoon Pulling Strings Inside Law Enforcement

In a session that revealed the darker side of South Africa’s policing and governance, the Madlanga Commission exposed how three influential figures allegedly sought personal gain from notorious underworld figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. Major General Lesetja Senona, crime expert Calvin Rafadi, and Ekurhuleni Metro Police head Julius Mkhwanazi were all implicated in a web of financial demands and institutional favouritism.

Evidence surfaced through WhatsApp messages and witness testimony, which pointed to a disturbing pattern: the underworld reaching into the very structures designed to stop it. Witness X, appearing remotely to protect their identity, described multiple instances where these figures expected or accepted payments from Matlala in exchange for influence and privileged access.

Senona’s Side Deals: Property, Contracts, and Leaks

Senona, currently head of the Hawks in KwaZulu-Natal, was shown communicating with Matlala and his own son Thato about property deals and confidential document sharing. In one WhatsApp message, Senona asked Matlala, “Good afternoon brother. Did you meet with Thato?” to which Matlala replied that he was awaiting an offer.

Testimony further suggested that Senona used his position to protect Matlala’s business interests, notably preserving contracts with Medicare24. Witnesses indicated he allegedly leaked SAPS documents and intervened to stall cancellations, even facilitating invoice payments tied to Matlala’s firm.

Locals and social media users have reacted with outrage, pointing out how such alleged collusion erodes public trust in South Africa’s security institutions. One Twitter user commented: “When the very people meant to uphold the law are lining their pockets with criminals, what hope is left for ordinary citizens?”

Rafadi’s Requests: PhD Funding for Favourable Access

Calvin Rafadi, a recognised crime expert, was shown repeatedly messaging Matlala for financial assistance including PhD funding and petrol money in return for leveraging access to law enforcement networks. He allegedly supplied Matlala with intelligence and shaped favourable media narratives.

Rafadi, however, insisted his collaborations were legitimate and part of official partnerships with law enforcement. He confirmed he is willing to testify fully to explain how information was shared through proper channels.

Mkhwanazi’s Municipal Favouritism: Vehicles and Privileges

Julius Mkhwanazi, head of the Ekurhuleni Metro Police, is accused of intervening in municipal matters for Matlala, including vehicle registration irregularities and granting special privileges like blue-light fittings for private vehicles. One WhatsApp message reportedly asked him to assist with Matlala’s driver, who had been caught speeding at 90 kph in a 60 kph zone.

Mkhwanazi denies the claims, calling them false and baseless, but said he is prepared to testify and clear his name. The commission heard that the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) had already investigated these alleged offences, lending weight to the evidence presented.

The Madlanga Commission, tasked with untangling corruption and collusion in South Africa’s public institutions, is set to continue on Thursday. Analysts suggest these revelations could prompt a broader crackdown on corruption within law enforcement and municipal bodies, while the public waits to see whether justice will follow these explosive claims.

As South Africans watch closely, the case raises urgent questions about accountability, integrity, and the influence of criminal networks within state structures, issues that touch every township, suburb, and city in the country.

{Source: IOL}

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