Mzansi Weekly

17/11/2025

Andrew Chauke, the suspended South Gauteng Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in South Africa, is currently the subject of an inquiry into his fitness to hold office due to serious allegations of misconduct and a history of mishandling high-profile cases, particularly those related to state capture. The inquiry began in November 2025.

Key Details
Suspension: President Cyril Ramaphosa suspended Chauke with immediate effect in July 2025, pending the outcome of the inquiry.
Reason for Suspension: The President's office stated that Chauke's continued tenure while facing serious accusations would negatively affect the reputation of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).

Allegations: The allegations against Chauke, many of which have been highlighted by the non-profit organisation Open Secrets, include:
Acting as a "gatekeeper" and weaponising the NPA to protect politically powerful and corrupt figures.

Failing to continue with murder charges against the former Crime Intelligence head Richard Mdluli, despite strong evidence.
Instituting unjustified racketeering charges against former KwaZulu-Natal Hawks head Johan Booysen and the Cato Manor unit.

Overseeing the withdrawal of corruption charges against former ANC spokesperson Z**i Kodwa.
The Inquiry: The inquiry is chaired by retired Constitutional Court Justice Bess Nkabinde. Its mandate is to determine whether Chauke, in his role as DPP, complied with the Constitution and relevant laws and acted without fear, favour, or prejudice. The National Director of Public Prosecutions, Shamila Batohi, was expected to be the first witness to testify.

Chauke's Position: Chauke, who has held the DPP position since 2011, has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has expressed a desire for the inquiry to start so he can clear his name.
The inquiry is expected to provide an independent assessment of the issues and report its findings to the President.

05/10/2025

Insurance Murder is a devastating form of premeditated fraud where a perpetrator deliberately kills a policyholder—often a family member or loved one—to illegally claim the resulting life, funeral, or endowment insurance payout.

This scourge is on the rise in South Africa, fueled by financial desperation and pure greed. It's a shocking act of ultimate betrayal that turns a financial safety net designed for protection into an incentive for murder. Prominent cases, like that of former police officer Nomia Rosemary Ndlovu who orchestrated the murders of six family members, highlight that these crimes are often meticulously planned by people in positions of trust.

Nomia Rosemary Ndlovu - The Killer Police SergeantThis is the chilling true crime story of Nomia Rosemary Ndlovu, a former South African police sergeant who ...

02/10/2025

Statement on the Passing of Ambassador Nkosinathi Emmanuel Mthethwa and Circumstances Under Investigation

We share an update regarding the deeply saddening news of the death of Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa, South Africa's Ambassador to France and former Cabinet Minister.

Ambassador Mthethwa was found deceased on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at the foot of a high-rise hotel in Paris, having reportedly fallen from the 22nd floor where he had a room booked. His death has been confirmed by the South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), which expressed profound regret over his untimely passing.

Key Details Under Investigation

The circumstances surrounding the Ambassador’s death are currently the subject of an investigation by French authorities. The key details reported thus far include:

Reported Missing:
Ambassador Mthethwa was reported missing by his wife on Monday evening, September 29, after she received a reportedly "disturbing message" from him.

Initial Findings: The Paris prosecutor's office has indicated that a secured window in his 22nd-floor hotel room was found to have been "forced open" with scissors found on the scene. Early inquiries, according to French authorities, suggest the possibility of a deliberate act and that there were no signs of a struggle.

Official Response: The South African government has confirmed they are fully cooperating with the French investigation and has offered condolences to the Mthethwa family, describing the loss as a tragedy felt across the diplomatic and national community.

Ambassador Mthethwa's Career and Public Service

Ambassador Mthethwa had a long and consequential career in public service. He was appointed South Africa's Ambassador to France in December 2023. Prior to this diplomatic posting, his significant roles included:

Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture (2019–2023) and Minister of Arts and Culture (2014–2019). His tenure in this portfolio was marked by initiatives to promote South African heritage and the arts, though it also faced notable controversies, including the proposed R22 million monumental flag project which was shelved following public outcry over the expenditure.

Minister of Police (2009–2014) and Minister of Safety and Security (2008–2009). His time as Police Minister included the highly controversial Marikana Massacre in August 2012, where his role and political accountability were heavily scrutinised.

Allegations of Corruption: In recent years, and even very recently, he was implicated in allegations during various judicial commissions (such as the Zondo Commission and the ongoing Madlanga Commission) concerning the alleged misuse of the SAPS Crime Intelligence slush fund for personal benefit, which he previously denied.

Broader Context

Ambassador Mthethwa’s death occurs while he was still subject to public scrutiny related to his past ministerial roles. While the investigation into the cause of death is focused in Paris, the news has reignited public discourse in South Africa surrounding issues of political accountability, governance, and the complexities of his public legacy.

We extend our deepest sympathies to the Mthethwa family, friends, and colleagues during this exceptionally difficult time. Further updates will be provided as facts are officially confirmed by the investigating French authorities.

13/07/2025

Who Is Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala?

Early Life and Initial Criminal History:

While specific details about his early life are scarce in public reports, it's known that Matlala has a documented criminal history stretching back to the early 2000s.

* Housebreaking (2001): He has a conviction for housebreaking.

* Alleged Involvement in Cash-in-Transit Heists and Armed Robberies: Reports suggest he was involved in these types of crimes in the early 2000s, indicating a long-standing history of criminal activity.

Rise as a "Tenderpreneur" and Business Dealings:
Matlala transformed from a seemingly petty criminal to a powerful "tenderpreneur," allegedly leveraging his connections to secure lucrative government contracts.

* Focus on Health Services Tenders: A significant portion of his wealth and influence appears to stem from government tenders, particularly in the health services sector.

* Key Companies: His companies, including Falcon Cat Trading and Suppliers, Black AK Trading and Suppliers, and Cor Kabeng Trading and Suppliers, have been repeatedly flagged for questionable dealings.

* Tembisa Hospital Scandal (R3 Billion Probe): Matlala was a central figure in a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) probe into nearly R3 billion in dubious contracts at Tembisa Hospital.

* Alleged Fake Bid Documents: The SIU indicated it would refer Matlala and Black AK to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for possible prosecution for allegedly supplying fake bid documents.

* Babita Deokaran Connection: This is arguably the most damning connection. Babita Deokaran, a whistleblower and acting Chief Financial Officer at the Gauteng Provincial Department of Health, was assassinated in August 2021 after exposing widespread corruption, including irregularities related to Matlala's companies at Tembisa Hospital.

While Matlala has not been directly charged with her murder, the timing and context strongly suggest a link to the corruption she uncovered. Six men were arrested and convicted for her murder in August 2023, and they reportedly provided "valuable information" that will assist in bringing further persons involved to justice. The masterminds behind her assassination are still being pursued.

* R360 Million SAPS Health Services Tender: More recently, Matlala's company, Medicare 24 Tshwane District, was awarded a R360 million health services contract from the South African Police Service (SAPS) in June 2024.

* "Sustained Underperformance": Despite "sustained underperformance," R18.5 million was reportedly paid into his company's accounts.

* Suspicious Resignation of SAPS Official: A Democratic Alliance (DA) investigation highlighted the suspicious resignation of Petunia Lenono, a former SAPS official and member of the bid evaluation committee that recommended the tender award, just six days after the tender was granted. She has since been assigned a Medicare24 email address, raising significant red flags about potential conflicts of interest and pre-existing connections. The DA has called for an urgent and independent audit of this tender.

Deep-Seated Connections to Police and Political Figures:

This is where Matlala's notoriety truly escalates. He is alleged to have significant influence and "political reach" within the SAPS and government.

* Police Minister Senzo Mchunu: KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has publicly alleged that Matlala has links to Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, even suggesting Matlala was an alleged funder for the minister. Mchunu has denied ever meeting Matlala.

These allegations have contributed to a major scandal and probe into criminal syndicates infesting South African law enforcement.

* Former Police Minister Bheki Cele: Reports have implicated former Police Minister Bheki Cele, alleging he used a luxury penthouse in Pretoria paid for by Matlala.

* Alleged Influence in Disbanding Political Killing Task Team: There are serious allegations that Matlala's influence played a role in the disbandment of the political killing task team, further fueling concerns about his reach within the justice system.

* Boasting of Protection: SAPS insiders claim Matlala frequently boasts of protection by ministers and generals, which allegedly hinders effective investigation and prosecution against him. This suggests a pattern of systemic corruption and "state capture" where criminals can operate with impunity due to high-level connections.

Current Legal Status and Imprisonment:

* Current Charges: Matlala is currently facing charges of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering. These charges are related to an alleged hit orchestrated against his former girlfriend, socialite and actress Tebogo Thobejane, who was shot in the foot in 2023.

* Consolidation of Cases: The state plans to consolidate two additional pending matters against him (from Pretoria West and Lyttelton) into the current case, indicating a widening scope of charges.

* Imprisonment: He is currently incarcerated at the Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre in Pretoria.

* C-Max Classification: He has been classified as a "high-risk" inmate and has been moved to the high-security C-Max section after being found with a cellphone inside his cell, leading to further investigations into how he obtained the device.

* Next Court Date: His case has been postponed to August 26, 2025.

Wider Implications:

Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala has become a prominent figure in the ongoing discourse about corruption and organized crime in South Africa. His case highlights:

* State Capture: The alleged infiltration of criminal syndicates into state institutions, particularly law enforcement.

* Whistleblower Vulnerability: The extreme dangers faced by those who expose corruption, as tragically exemplified by Babita Deokaran's assassination.

* Lack of Accountability: Concerns about the slow pace of justice and the challenges in bringing high-profile individuals with political connections to account.

The depth of the allegations against Matlala, combined with the involvement of high-ranking political and police figures, makes his ongoing legal proceedings and the wider investigations surrounding him a critical barometer for the state of corruption and justice in South Africa to date.

18/12/2024

Tragic Incident of Domestic Violence Ends in Murder-Suicide

On Tuesday evening, police responded to a report of a murder in Umzinto, South Africa. The body of a 25-year-old woman was discovered with multiple stab wounds on a gravel road in the Malangeni area.

Initial investigations suggest the victim was murdered by her boyfriend following a domestic dispute. The suspect's vehicle was found abandoned nearby with bloodstains, indicating the crime may have occurred within the vehicle.

In a disturbing turn of events, the suspect was found deceased on Wednesday morning. He was discovered hanging from a tree in the Malangeni area, suggesting a possible su***de.

Police are currently investigating the murder and have opened an inquest docket to determine the circumstances surrounding the suspect's death.

24/10/2024

Lawyer Arrested for R10.5M RAF Fraud

In a major legal development, Michael Senotse Mabunda, a lawyer previously disbarred for widespread misconduct, was arrested for allegedly defrauding the Road Accident Fund (RAF) of R10.5 million. Mabunda, who was struck off the roll of legal practitioners in May 2018, faces charges of corruption, fraud, and theft after failing to distribute RAF funds to his clients.

The Legal Practice Council (LPC) confirmed that Mabunda was suspended in 2017 following multiple complaints, ranging from failure to pay trust funds to overcharging and improper conduct. Despite being struck off, Mabunda reportedly continued engaging in fraudulent activities. A financial investigation revealed that over R10.5 million was deposited into his firm's trust account from RAF claims, but clients never received the funds.

Mabunda’s arrest by the Hawks last week highlights the LPC’s commitment to maintaining integrity within the legal profession. His arrest serves as a warning to other legal professionals about the importance of trust when handling client funds. Mabunda made his first court appearance at the Pretoria Specialized Commercial Crimes Court, with further proceedings scheduled for November.

The public is urged to verify the credentials of legal practitioners and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

20/10/2024

SAPS Whistleblower Patricia Morgan-Mashale Alleges Threat to Her Life

Former SAPS employee and whistleblower Patricia Morgan-Mashale has voiced serious concerns for her safety, alleging that she is being targeted by former Police Minister Bheki Cele and senior police officials. In an interview with BizNews, Morgan-Mashale claimed she had received information about a meeting involving Cele, two Crime Intelligence generals, and others implicated in corruption she had exposed. She also alleges that a foreign cyber expert was tasked with using spyware to locate her.

Morgan-Mashale first made headlines in 2022 after accusing Cele and other SAPS officials of corruption. She was dismissed from SAPS in February 2022 for misconduct after making two protected disclosures. She has stated that if she dies an unnatural death, the police will be responsible. Cele has denied all allegations made against him.

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20/10/2024

Kabelo Gwamanda Arrest Shakes Johannesburg.

In a shocking development that has sent ripples through the city, former Johannesburg Mayor Kabelo Gwamanda has been arrested over an alleged funeral policy scam.

Gwamanda, once thought dead by his victims, reportedly turned himself in to police on Friday after a warrant for his arrest was issued in May. His alleged fraud dates back to 2011 when he sold funeral policies through his company, Ithemba Lama Afrika, to Soweto residents. These policies, paid monthly, failed to deliver, leaving many frustrated when they couldn't locate the company’s offices.

In an unusual twist, Gwamanda’s victims believed the company directors had died—only to see Gwamanda later emerge as mayor of Africa’s richest city. One victim, determined to get justice, opened a case, sparking investigations that revealed he had allegedly operated the business illegally.

Despite these accusations, Gwamanda maintains that the business collapsed, and he claims to have addressed the issue with his clients. The former mayor previously dismissed these allegations as a "character assassination" and urged anyone with proof to come forward. His political allies, including the ANC, have been quick to defend him, asserting that his record was clear when vetted for the mayoral role.

This arrest has reignited conversations about trust in leadership and accountability in our communities. Can we hold our leaders to higher standards?

20/10/2024

Amakhosi Ajabulile...

15/10/2024

Lusikisiki Mass Killings Suspect Abandons Bail Application

In a major development in the Lusikisiki mass murder case, Siphosoxolo Myekethe (45), accused of the brutal killing of 18 people, has abandoned his bail application. Myekethe appeared in the Lusikisiki Magistrates' Court today, where he confirmed his decision. He was previously out on parole for murder when he was arrested for the recent massacre.

Myekethe faces 18 charges of murder and one count of possession of an unlicensed firearm, specifically an AK-47 assault rifle. He was arrested on 07 October 2024 at his residence in Mthimde Location, following a mass shooting that took place on 28 September 2024 at two neighbouring homes in Ngobozana Village. The tragic incident claimed 18 lives and left five others injured.

The prosecution had already stated its intention to oppose bail. Myekethe has two prior convictions, including one for murder and another for escaping from lawful custody. The case has been postponed to 26 November 2024, to allow for further investigations, as there are still outstanding suspects linked to the massacre.

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13/10/2024

In the wake of Tito Mboweni's untimely death, we remember those who we have lost in 2024 already.

May their souls rest in peace.
Tell us if you recognize some of these public figures?

13/10/2024

What is Happening Within The SAPS?

A police sergeant from the Senwabarwana Police Station in Limpopo, Rachel Raesetsa Shokane Kutumela, has appeared briefly in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court facing charges linked to six murders and extensive insurance fraud amounting to R10 million. Her arrest is part of a larger crackdown, bringing the total number of South African Police Service (SAPS) officers arrested in recent days to 15.

Kutumela, 43, stands accused of fraudulently securing life and funeral insurance policies for victims, who were later found dead under suspicious circumstances from 2014 to 2019. Notable incidents include a woman found burned in her shack and a disabled man who drowned in a dam. The National Prosecuting Authority has stated that more arrests are anticipated.

The case follows the arrests of 14 other officers for serious offenses, including the assault and death of a civilian in Soweto, and extortion charges against officers in Cape Town. Experts emphasize that systemic corruption and misconduct within the police force are pervasive, often exacerbated by organized crime targeting law enforcement.

In response to Kutumela's arrest, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu condemned the actions as a "calculated and heinous scheme," reaffirming the government’s commitment to rooting out corruption in SAPS. National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola echoed these sentiments, stressing the betrayal of trust by officers involved in such criminal activities.

The ongoing investigation, led by Captain Keshi Mabunda, follows a pattern of corruption in the police force, with recommendations for reform including the establishment of a dedicated National Anti-Corruption Unit and a robust internal disciplinary system to restore public confidence in law enforcement.

Mabunda also conducted the investigation that resulted in the conviction of former police officer Rosemary Ndlovu, who was sentenced to six life terms in November 2021 for orchestrating the murder of her partner and five family members to collect insurance payouts from policies she had taken out for them.

The court proceedings for this matter are set to continue on October 18 for a bail application, which the State intends to oppose.