By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The underworld kingping Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala told the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry that his admissions of payments to former deputy national police commissioner Shadrack Sibiya were made under duress.
Proceedings became tense after Matlala requested that his testimony relating to Sibiya be heard behind closed doors, citing fears for his safety and that of his family.
Matlala confirmed paying Sibiya R550,000. He said R500,000 was a contribution towards Sibiya’s son’s wedding in North West, while a further R50,000 covered travel expenses linked to the SAPS Excellence Awards in Durban.
Matlala also named several high-ranking police officials who were present, including former SAPS College head, Sandra Malebe-Thema, Lieutenant-General, Hilda Senthumule, Major-General, Richard Shibiri and former intelligence operative, Robert McBride.
His latest account contradicts his earlier version before the Parliament Ad Hoc Committee, which also aligned with Sibiya’s testimony at the Commission.
Matlala has since admitted that he misled the parliamentary committee.
Matlala also distanced himself from claims that he knowingly gifted Sibiya 20 impalas, saying he was unaware that the animals were destined for the former police official’s farm.
The commission heard that former SAPS Sergeant Fannie Nkosi visited Matlala’s farm in Limpopo on 21 March 2024 and relayed a request from a friend for impalas.
Matlala agreed to cover the transportation costs but said he did not know who the animals were being delivered to.
The commission was also presented with a voice note from a person identified as ‘Rudy Farm Manager’, who requested a pin-drop location for delivery. Matlala forwarded the message to Nkosi, who has been described as an alleged go-between.
Matlala said he only later learnt that the impalas had been taken to Sibiya’s farm. The commission heard that the animals gradually died after arriving at the property.
Matlala has also denied allegations that Sibiya demanded a second R500 000 payment from him after receiving an initial amount.
Meanwhile, his lawyer, Advocate Anneline van den Heever, accused evidence leaders Adila Hassim and Mahlape Sello of holding undisclosed consultations with Matlala at Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre, without his legal team being present.
She said she received this information from senior commission investigator, Bongani Dlamini, who indicated that the discussions would be treated as off the record and would not be used during public proceedings.
However Sello SC rejected the claim, stating the session was formally intended to secure a statement from Matlala.
Chairperson Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga directed her to submit an affidavit setting out her version and the relief she sought. The evidence leaders will then respond.