Mzansi Weekly (2025)

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.

12/10/2024

Naledi Five.

The tragic deaths of five children in Naledi, following their consumption of allegedly tainted snacks from a local store, have sparked significant community outrage ahead of a memorial service on October 11. Family representatives voiced their grief and called for government intervention to expedite investigations for closure.

Among the deceased were Karabo Rampou, nine, and six-year-old Monica Ofentse Sathekge, whose family lamented the loss of her dreams to become a teacher. The police are investigating the circumstances, with five inquest dockets potentially evolving into murder investigations.

This incident highlights a troubling rise in food poisoning cases among children in the region, including previous fatalities linked to similar incidents in Naledi and beyond. Recent reports have detailed additional food poisoning cases affecting schoolchildren in Limpopo and Gauteng, raising concerns about food safety and compliance in local vendors. The Gauteng Department of Education previously flagged the issue, with reports of multiple children falling ill from suspected contaminated food.

In 2023, food poisoning emerged as a pressing concern highlighted by the Gauteng Department of Education, following the tragic death of a six-year-old student from Mandlethu Primary School. This incident coincided with the hospitalization of four other children, aged two to nine, at Pholosong Regional Hospital due to suspected food poisoning.

A disturbing pattern has emerged, as food poisoning incidents have recurred in various areas. Notably, in October 2022, two children in South Deep, Gauteng, died after consuming tainted snacks from a local spaza shop, and a 14-year-old in Protea South also succumbed to suspected food poisoning from a similar source. Recently, a group of high school students in Merafong was hospitalized for food poisoning, and in Limpopo, 35 primary school learners were admitted under similar suspicions. These incidents underscore the ongoing and alarming prevalence of food safety issues within the community.

All in all, children are dying because of contaminated spaza-shop foods, parents and guardians are then asked to be vigilant at all times of what children are consuming.

05/02/2024

Congratulations are in order for Tyla...

30/10/2023

We Are Decorated

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