Matlala claims R500 000 paid to Cele in explosive parliament testimony

Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala appeared before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee on Wednesday, facing scrutiny over alleged corruption and criminal syndicate links. Matlala, dressed sharply and shackled, sat under the watchful eyes of MPs and cameras as he delivered claims that sent shockwaves through the political and law enforcement spheres.

He alleged that he paid former Police Minister Bheki Cele R500 000 in two instalments of R300 000 and R200 000, framing the payments as gratitude for assistance he received. Matlala further accused Cele of misleading Parliament when denying any connection between them, raising fresh questions about the minister’s previous testimony.

He described a dramatic police raid on his home and offices, during which heavily armed officers allegedly forced his young children and wife to the ground. Matlala said this incident was retaliation after he refused to continue payments, suggesting a vendetta against him that escalated into legal and public scrutiny.

When asked about a R360 million tender awarded to his company in 2024, Matlala declined to provide details, insisting responsibility rested with SAPS procurement officials and arguing that institutional failures, rather than individual wrongdoing, were at play.

Matlala recounted his rise from street trading in his youth to establishing a registered security firm in 2017. He acknowledged a past conviction for illegal trade but maintained that his subsequent operations were legitimate until allegedly targeted by political interference and fabricated accusations.

His testimony, now pending verification, is part of a broader parliamentary inquiry into corruption, collusion between criminals and police, and political protection of syndicate interests. As South Africans follow the proceedings, the hearing may reveal the extent of alleged misconduct within the police service and the state’s oversight of criminal networks.