Matlala Alleges IDAC Investigators Sought Information on Top Police Officials

Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala, an alleged crime kingpin, has made serious allegations against Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) investigators. Testifying at the Madlanga Commission, Matlala claimed that IDAC officials targeted him to gather damaging information against senior South African Police Service (SAPS) officials. He specifically named General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola as the individuals IDAC investigators sought to implicate.

According to Matlala, IDAC investigators Dylan Perumal and others approached him at Kokstad's C-Max correctional facility, where he was being held. They allegedly told him that they were not primarily after him but needed to arrest him to reach other people they wanted to investigate. Matlala claimed that the investigators identified Mkhwanazi, Masemola, and Khumalo as their targets. This testimony raises questions about the methods used by IDAC investigators and their priorities in pursuing certain individuals.

Matlala's testimony also shed light on his disputed plea agreement. He alleged that Perumal repeatedly altered his statements, producing approximately four versions that he was required to sign. Advocate Suneel Belluchan acted as commissioner of oaths during the signing process. Matlala disputed the contents of the agreement, alleging that information was inserted by IDAC officials without his consent. This has cast a spotlight on the legitimacy of the plea agreement and its potential use as evidence.

The alleged approaches by IDAC investigators included taking Matlala to the Sheraton Hotel while seeking information about the senior police officers. Matlala's claims suggest that investigators may have been more focused on gathering information against high-ranking officials than pursuing justice against him for his alleged crimes. This has raised concerns about the priorities and methods of IDAC investigators.

Matlala's testimony is part of an ongoing inquiry at the Madlanga Commission. Evidence leader Advocate Adila Hassim is questioning Matlala about the statement he made to investigators. The commission's proceedings continue, and it remains to be seen how Matlala's allegations will impact the investigation into IDAC's activities and the validity of his plea agreement.

The allegations made by Matlala have significant implications for the SAPS and IDAC. If true, they suggest that investigators may have compromised their integrity and prioritized gathering information against high-ranking officials over pursuing justice. The SAPS and IDAC have not publicly commented on Matlala's allegations, but it is likely that they will face scrutiny and potential repercussions.

The Madlanga Commission's inquiry into Matlala's allegations and the disputed plea agreement is ongoing. Key points from Matlala's testimony include his allegations that IDAC investigators targeted him to implicate senior SAPS officials, the disputed plea agreement, and concerns about the methods used by IDAC investigators.

Key points

• Matlala alleges IDAC investigators targeted him to gather information on senior SAPS officials.
• Matlala disputes the legitimacy of his plea agreement, alleging that information was inserted without his consent.
• The allegations have significant implications for the SAPS and IDAC, potentially compromising their integrity.