Madlanga Commission Shock
By Thabo Mosia – Bombshell testimony at the Madlanga Commission has exposed alleged monthly cash payments of up to R1 million from underworld businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala to suspended Deputy Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya, along with a one-off R2 million handout to buy a bed-and-breakfast in Midrand, Johannesburg. Witness C, testifying under protection on Thursday, 30 October 2025, detailed how Matlala claimed these payouts were tied to lucrative SAPS tenders, painting a picture of deep-rooted corruption at the heart of South Africa’s law enforcement.
This revelation adds to a growing list of accusations against senior officials, including claims that Matlala bankrolled political campaigns and used high-level connections to dodge investigations. The commission, probing interference in police matters, has heard from multiple protected witnesses, uncovering a web of favours, kickbacks, and threats. As South Africa battles to restore trust in its institutions, these claims highlight the urgent need for accountability amid ongoing scandals like the Phala Phala farm probe and state capture echoes.
The hearings, adjourned until Monday, continue to draw intense scrutiny, with more protected testimonies expected. Investigators have flagged a recorded confession from Matlala as key evidence, set for forensic review alongside bank statements and contract records.
Witness C’s Explosive Account: Monthly Payouts and Property Deals
Under oath, Witness C recounted Matlala’s confession during interviews and a recorded statement, where he admitted to a steady stream of payments to Sibiya. “He indicated that after each and every payment by SAPS for his tender, then a portion of the payment would be given to General Sibiya, and he indicated that sometimes he would pay to the total of R1 million per month,” the witness testified.
The payments allegedly formed part of an arrangement where Matlala secured SAPS contracts worth hundreds of millions, including a R360 million deal. In one instance, Matlala reportedly handed over R2 million in cash to help Sibiya acquire a B&B in Midrand. “He told us that he gave General Sibiya R2 million in cash to acquire a B&B in Midrand,” Witness C said, describing it as one of several favours sustaining their relationship.
Further details emerged of how a police sergeant, identified only as Gorsi, acted as a middleman, facilitating communication and cash transfers. Money was allegedly collected from Matlala’s luxury Centurion mansion by a detective working for Sibiya, with payouts disguised and delivered in person to avoid traces.
Witness C also revealed Matlala’s frustration, claiming Sibiya “loves money a lot” and that the deputy commissioner grew demanding over time. These accounts suggest a system where tenders were awarded in exchange for kickbacks, eroding the integrity of police procurement.
Ties to Political Figures: Mchunu, Cele, and Beyond
The testimony didn’t stop at Sibiya. Witness C alleged Matlala funded suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu’s presidential ambitions with R500,000 for ANC events, including flights and logistics for the January 8 celebrations in Cape Town. Matlala reportedly bragged about paying millions to Mchunu, Sibiya, KZN Hawks head Maj-Gen Lesetja Senona (referred to as Shibiri), and others like Khan.
After a raid on his home in December 2024, Matlala sought help from former Police Minister Bheki Cele, leading to the withdrawal of a theft case against police. “The resolution that was taken by former minister Cele was that it is not good to open false cases against the police. Therefore, he should withdraw the case against the police,” Witness C testified.
Matlala, feeling abandoned after losing ministerial protection, threatened to expose everything. “He said he had recorded everything and was going to expose everything, including his relationship with Minister Mchunu and General Sibiya,” the witness added. Claims also surfaced that Mchunu used the State Security Agency to target officers involved in the raid, aiding criminal accused like Matlala.
Additionally, a Crime Intelligence official allegedly demanded R2.5 million from Matlala, further illustrating the web of extortion and favours.
Madlanga Commission: Probing Deep Divisions in SAPS
Chaired by respected jurist Raymond Madlanga, the commission was set up to investigate allegations of corruption and interference in the criminal justice system, stemming from claims by Crime Intelligence head Lt-Gen Dumisani Khumalo. It has heard from witnesses A, B, and C – all provided dedicated offices during Matlala’s arrest – revealing how Matlala’s VIP security firm benefited from SAPS contracts through insider help.
The probe has exposed rifts at SAPS’s top levels, with Sibiya suspended amid accusations of being “bankrolled” by Matlala. Khumalo testified earlier that Matlala funded Mchunu’s delegates and leaked intelligence via businessman Brown Mogotsi, securing the R360 million deal.
Matlala’s arrest on 14 May 2025 followed a high-speed drive ending in a pothole puncture, where he claimed ties to figures like former Commissioner Riah Phiyega – a claim she denied. Facing charges of attempted murder and conspiracy against ex-girlfriend Tebogo Thobejane, Matlala remains in custody as a societal threat.
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