Cat Matlala's ex-girlfriend, SAPS Brigadier Rachel Matjeng, dismissed over corruption

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

The dismissal, which took effect on 30 June 2026, followed the conclusion of an internal disciplinary process. Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane confirmed the outcome on Wednesday, saying it demonstrates that corruption and collusion with criminals will not be tolerated within the police service.

Matjeng was found guilty of accepting gratification, money laundering, advising Matlala against the interests of SAPS, conduct prejudicial to the administration of the police by allegedly providing him with a list containing details of SAPS members for financial gain, and dishonesty.

Dimpane welcomed the dismissal, saying it sends a strong message that corruption, criminality and any form of collusion with criminals have no place in SAPS.

Matjeng is one of 12 senior SAPS officials charged in connection with Matlala's controversial R228-million police tender.

Earlier this year, while testifying before the Madlanga Commission, Matjeng admitted that she had been in a romantic relationship with Matlala since 2017. She told the commission he frequently gave her gifts and deposited money into her bank account.

Matlala, who has pleaded guilty to all seven charges against him in the SAPS tender corruption case, also admitted in court that he secretly paid up to R300,000 to Matjeng through one of his companies, Luxo Africa Brand Investments.

According to court proceedings, the money was paid to Osizweni Meat Hyper in Tembisa before being transferred to the personal account of the store's owner. The funds were allegedly withdrawn in cash and handed to Matjeng.