South Africa's top cop to be charged in corruption case
On Wed, the South African National Prosecuting Authority announced plans to charge National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola in relation to a $20-million health services tender. This development pertains to a now-cancelled 2024 police contract awarded…
On Wed, the South African National Prosecuting Authority announced plans to charge National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola in relation to a $20-million health services tender. This development pertains to a now-cancelled 2024 police contract awarded to businessman Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala, who is suspected of connections to organized crime.
Commissioner Masemola has received a summons to appear in court on Mon, Apr 21, 2024, and has confirmed his intention to comply with this court appearance. The specific charges Masemola will face have not yet been disclosed.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged the charges and stated that the matter will be addressed in accordance with legal procedures. The presidency also reiterated its commitment to maintaining stability within the police force to ensure the continuity of its mandate.
Fifteen individuals, comprising a dozen police officers and a director from Matlala's company, have been charged with corruption related to the tender's awarding. All accused parties have been granted bail, with the exception of Matlala, who had already received 50 million rand ($2.9 million) before the contract's cancellation.
On Wed, the South African National Prosecuting Authority announced plans to charge National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola in relation to a $20-million health services tender.
Matlala, known as a "tenderpreneur" for amassing wealth through government contracts, gained national attention following accusations against the police force and the police minister. These allegations led to the minister's dismissal and the establishment of a formal commission of inquiry by the president.
Additionally, a separate parliamentary inquiry is examining claims of corrupt relationships between senior police officers and crime figures, including allegations of financial transactions for favors.
Matlala was previously arrested in May 2023 concerning an attempted attack on his former partner. His name was also linked to the Tembisa Hospital scandal, where over 2.2 billion rand ($129 million) was reportedly misappropriated. This case notably resulted in the death of whistleblower Babita Deokaran in 2021.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
