Cat Matlala’s draft affidavit claims he paid Lt Gen Sibiya and names Bheki Cele in R228m SAPS tender

Crime journalist Yusuf Abramjee has revealed details from an unsigned 25-page draft affidavit allegedly prepared by controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala during negotiations for a plea agreement that eventually collapsed. The document contains serious allegations of bribery, corruption and irregularities surrounding a South African Police Service (SAPS) medical services tender awarded to Matlala’s company, Medicare24 Tshwane District.

According to the reported contents of the affidavit, Matlala allegedly claimed that he paid substantial amounts of money to Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya and implicated former police minister Bheki Cele in dealings connected to the matter. However, the claims have not been tested in court, and the document does not establish that the individuals mentioned committed any wrongdoing.

The draft also alleges that Medicare24’s financial statements were altered to create the impression that the company was operational and qualified to receive the contract. It further raises questions about the handling of tender documents, due-diligence procedures and the conduct of officials who allegedly sought payments or employment benefits during the process.

The SAPS medical services contract was initially valued at approximately R360 million. Reports indicate that around R228 million had been paid before the police service cancelled the agreement in 2025 following concerns about alleged irregularities.

Matlala reportedly prepared the affidavit while attempting to negotiate a plea agreement that would allow him to cooperate with investigators and potentially receive a reduced sentence. However, discussions with the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption did not result in a concluded agreement.

The businessman allegedly indicated that bank records, WhatsApp messages, tender documents and witness testimony could support his account of the events.

Matlala has also appeared before the Madlanga Commission and a parliamentary committee, where questions surrounding the tender and his alleged connections to senior officials have attracted attention.

The disclosure of the unsigned affidavit could add another dimension to investigations into alleged corruption within South Africa’s police service. Nevertheless, its contents remain allegations, and it is unclear whether the document will be formally submitted as evidence in future legal proceedings.

https://x.com/Abramjee/status/2114273287148536148

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