Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the commissioner of the KwaZulu-Natal Police, has revealed that he secretly recorded a meeting with tender entrepreneur Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala, who is facing attempted murder charges in Durban. In a WhatsApp message shared among senior government officials, Mkhwanazi indicated that the audio recording would be submitted to a special legislative committee investigating his allegations of corruption within the police force and other state bodies.
Mkhwanazi believes the meeting with Matlala serves as key evidence of criminal networks infiltrating parts of the criminal justice system. He mentioned that committee members would listen to the recording, which contains relevant conversations regarding the allegations, during their meetings.
Matlala’s name has surfaced in connection with claims of underworld activities, and he is a controversial figure linked to various state contracts. His associations with high-ranking government officials are under increased scrutiny, especially with his ongoing trial for attempted murder. In response to Mkhwanazi’s claims that organized crime has affected top officials in law enforcement and government, an ad hoc committee was formed.
Mkhwanazi’s admission of the recorded meeting indicates his willingness to provide evidence supporting his allegations. Matlala and his legal team have not publicly commented on the recording or Mkhwanazi’s claims. Legal experts note that the committee’s rules and context will influence the acceptance and relevance of the evidence presented. In the coming weeks, the committee is expected to hear testimony, and the role of Mkhwanazi’s recording will be pivotal in their discussions.