Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala Tells Commission Mkhwanazi Was Their Main Target — Masemola Linked To Plot

Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala has made a significant allegation before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, claiming that General Siyabonga Mkhwanazi was the main target of an alleged operation intended to weaken his influence within the South African Police Service (SAPS). His testimony also brought National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola into the discussion, raising further questions about possible divisions within the country’s police leadership.

During Tuesday’s proceedings, Matlala told the commission that Mkhwanazi had been identified as the individual whom certain people allegedly wanted to remove from a position of influence. According to his account, the alleged plan involved dismantling the support network surrounding the general rather than focusing exclusively on him.

Explaining the alleged strategy, Matlala said Masemola was considered an important part of Mkhwanazi’s support structure. He suggested that weakening Masemola’s position would therefore form part of the broader effort to undermine Mkhwanazi.

“Their main target — number one — is General Mkhwanazi,” Matlala told the commission.

The statement attracted attention because of the senior positions held by the two police generals mentioned during the testimony. Mkhwanazi has been at the centre of controversy surrounding developments within the SAPS, while Masemola serves as the country’s National Police Commissioner, making him one of the most senior figures in South Africa’s law enforcement system.

Following Matlala’s statement, commission counsel sought clarification about the source of his information. The legal representative wanted to establish who had communicated the alleged intentions to him and how he became aware of the developments.

Matlala reportedly explained that he obtained the information through operational channels he had accessed during his deployment. However, the information provided in the report does not identify the individuals who allegedly communicated the plan or provide independent documentary evidence supporting his account.

His testimony comes amid wider scrutiny of internal relationships, leadership decisions and alleged factional disputes within the South African Police Service. Questions surrounding senior appointments, institutional influence and the conduct of police officials have featured prominently in discussions about the country’s criminal justice system.

The allegations are particularly significant because they concern relationships involving senior police leadership. If substantiated, they could raise further questions about internal disagreements and the influence of competing interests within the institution.

However, Matlala’s statements remain allegations presented during commission proceedings and should not be treated as established findings. The individuals mentioned have not been shown in the supplied report to have responded to the specific claims.

Another important question concerns whether the commission will obtain documents or hear additional testimony capable of confirming or challenging Matlala’s account.

The Madlanga Commission is expected to continue examining evidence from witnesses as it investigates concerns surrounding South Africa’s criminal justice system. Its eventual findings will be important in determining which allegations are supported by evidence and whether accountability is required.

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