Matlala Pressed to Explain ‘Bricks’ Messages at Madlanga – Says It’s a Mining Mineral, Not Cocaine

Controversial businessman Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala faced tough questions at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry on Wednesday when he was pressed to explain messages that referred to “bricks”.

The commission is investigating claims of criminality, political interference and corruption in South Africa’s criminal justice system. Matlala, who has been linked to alleged tender irregularities and gifts to police officials, appeared before the panel as a key witness.

During the hearing, evidence leaders showed WhatsApp exchanges in which Matlala and another person discussed bricks, a possible profit and an amount of R350 000. When asked what the bricks were, Matlala said he was talking about a white mineral used in mining. He added that the mineral was wrapped in foil.

However, he could not remember the name of the mineral. He insisted that the bricks were not cocaine and denied any connection to drugs.

The exchange has drawn attention because of the way the messages were written and the large sum of money mentioned. Commissioners continued to press him for a clear explanation after his answers left some questions unanswered.

Matlala has appeared before the commission several times. He has previously been named in testimony as a figure linked to the so-called Big Five syndicate. That syndicate is alleged to have been involved in drug trafficking, tender fraud and other serious crimes, with connections reaching into the police and other parts of the state.

The businessman has also been linked to a large SAPS health services contract that was later cancelled after irregularities were found. He remains in custody on separate criminal matters, including charges related to attempted assassinations. None of those cases has reached a final verdict.

His testimony is part of a wider set of hearings that have kept South Africans watching closely. Senior police officers, including suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, are expected to appear in the coming weeks. The commission, chaired by retired Constitutional Court Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, is due to submit its final report to President Cyril Ramaphosa by early 2027.

Observers say the “bricks” exchange is one of the more striking moments of Matlala’s recent testimony. His claim that he cannot name the mineral has left many wondering what exactly was being discussed in those messages.

The hearing continues, and further details from Matlala’s answers are expected to emerge as the commission works through the evidence. For now, the businessman maintains that the references had nothing to do with cocaine and were simply about a mining product.

Source: https://x.com/MDNnewss/status/2120582505816342872?a=mS-rYDXeMccJVpZCUlM&s=19