By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has confirmed the ongoing discussions between the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) and the underworld kingpin Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.
This follows reports that Matlala is willing to provide evidence implicating certain individuals in a large-scale corruption probe linked to his company, Medicare 24.
NPA spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago told the SABC that there were engagements currently taking place between IDAC and Matlala.
“We cannot, at this point, be saying that the engagement will lead to a plea agreement, said Kganyago.
The matter centres on a R228 million tender that was irregularly awarded by the South African Police Service (SAPS) to Medicare24.
Matlala recently appeared in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court alongside senior police officers facing corruption and fraud charges linked to the tender. Among the accused is suspended SAPS National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, who faces charges related to the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).
Kganyago said the engagements are formal processes and not yet plea negotiations. He noted that further processes are required, including engagement with the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), and that any decision must comply with the law.
He also said there should be no assumption that any agreement would automatically spare Matlala from prosecution and that the state must verify facts presented before proceeding.
The matter was postponed to 26 June 2026 for further investigation. The state is expected to disclose the docket to the accused and may amend the charge sheet.
The State alleges that Matlala bribed senior police officers, including generals, to secure the contract, which was awarded in June 2024 before it was later cancelled. The group first appeared in court in March 2026.
The dodgy R360-million tender was awarded to Medicare24 Tshwane District in June 2024 before being cancelled in April 2025. It dovetails with explosive testimony by General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi that the “Big Five” drug cartel had infiltrated South Africa’s criminal justice system, politics and private security industry. Before the contract was terminated, Medicare24 received more than R50-million.
The contract also sent shockwaves through law enforcement circles because Matlala’s networks intersect with procurement corruption linked to Tembisa Hospital; the same web of payments flagged by whistleblower Babita Deokaran before her assassination in 2021.