A serious dispute has broken out between Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. The commissioner made strong claims at a press conference in Durban on Sunday, saying the minister was involved in criminal activity and had ties to businessman Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala.
Mchunu responded through his office, saying he had never met or spoken to Matlala. He also denied accepting any gifts, money, or support from him. These statements come after Mkhwanazi accused him of being part of a network that weakened the fight against political killings.
What Sparked the Allegations?
Commissioner Mkhwanazi told the media that Matlala had received a R360 million SAPS health tender, even though he had been under investigation for fraud linked to Tembisa Hospital. He claimed Matlala used phone contacts and money to influence decisions in the police service.
One of the most serious claims was that Matlala was helping to shut down the political killings task team, a group formed to investigate high-level political murders in KwaZulu-Natal. Mkhwanazi said there was proof that Matlala gave financial support to people close to the minister.
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Matlala’s Criminal Background Raises Questions
Matlala is not new to controversy. Earlier this year, he was arrested for allegedly planning a hit on his former partner, actress and influencer Tebogo Thobejane. He has also faced serious fraud claims related to public hospital tenders.
The SAPS tender awarded to him was later cancelled, but the damage was already done. Critics are now asking how someone with a criminal record managed to secure such a large contract from the police.
Mchunu Responds to the Accusations
Minister Mchunu said he had nothing to hide. He explained that when he first heard concerns about the SAPS contract, he ordered a full review of the deal. That review led to the termination of the tender, showing he acted in good faith.
He also cleared the air about another person mentioned in the claims, Brown Mogotsi. While Mchunu admitted he knows Mogotsi, he described him as just “a comrade,” not someone he works with or receives help from. This was different from what he once said in Parliament, where he claimed not to know him at all.
What Happens Next?
These claims are now getting attention across the country. President Cyril Ramaphosa asked people to stay calm and wait for the full facts. But opposition parties are pushing for a full investigation.
People want clear answers. If the claims are proven, police leaders may face court. Some could also lose their jobs. For now, the NPA and Parliament plan more reviews.
Key Timeline
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Tender awarded to Matlala | Unknown | Worth R360 million |
| Tender cancelled | May 2025 | After internal review |
| Mkhwanazi press briefing | 6 July 2025 | Raised all major claims |
| Mchunu’s response | 9 July 2025 | Denied all allegations |
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Hi, I’m Amandeep Singh, a content writer at Ramnath Intercollage. I share updates on jobs, internships, and scholarships across South Africa using official and trusted sources. My aim is to make every post easy to read and helpful for anyone looking to apply.
