This week the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has been dominated by the testimony of businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. After several days of evidence (Days 165–167, 24–26 August 2026), the commission focused on his relationship with Major-General Lesetja Senona, the former provincial head of the KwaZulu-Natal Hawks.
Matlala is a central figure in the inquiry. He has been named in earlier Crime Intelligence testimony as a leading figure in the alleged “Big Five” cartel and is linked to the controversial R360 million SAPS Medicare24 health-services tender awarded to his company (approximately R228 million of which was paid).
For the complete background and full timeline of the Madlanga Commission, see our main pillar page:
What Happened This Week
Matlala’s appearance was originally delayed by legal applications, including an attempt to postpone his evidence and invocations of the right against self-incrimination. The commission largely rejected these applications and proceeded.On Day 167 (26 August 2026), evidence leaders moved away from taxi bosses and tender partners and turned to a serving (now former) police general.
Matlala described his relationship with Major-General Senona as follows:
- He called Senona “not friends but he’s my older brother.”
- They first met around 2018 or 2019 at a wedding.
- After police raided Matlala’s Pretoria home on 6 December 2024 and seized his phones, Senona lent him R20 000.
- He confirmed WhatsApp messages dated 13 May 2025 in which Senona advised him to take legal advice about challenging the cancellation of the Medicare24 contract.
Broader Context of Matlala’s Evidence
Across the three days, the commission also examined:
- Financial arrangements and loans involving other businessmen.
- Matlala’s connections to taxi industry figures.
- The circumstances surrounding the SAPS Medicare24 tender.
- Claims that sensitive police documents were shared with him.
Why This Testimony Matters
The Madlanga Commission was established to investigate whether criminal syndicates and political actors have infiltrated the criminal justice system. Testimony suggesting close personal and financial relationships between a businessman at the centre of tender and cartel allegations and a senior Hawks general goes directly to that mandate.
All allegations remain untested. Matlala and everyone named are presumed innocent unless and until findings are made by the commission or a court.
What Happens Next?
Matlala’s evidence is ongoing. The commission is also expected to hear from other implicated parties, including possibly Major-General Senona himself. The final report remains due on 16 November 2026.
We will continue tracking every major development in this series. All articles link back to the main pillar page.
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