R360m SAPS Tender Fraud: 12 Cops Arrested Alongside Cat Matlala
Twelve police officers have been arrested in connection with a R360 million tender fraud within the South African Police Service (SAPS), alongside controversial businesswoman Cat Matlala. The arrests, carried out in a series of coordinated raids, mark a significant escalation in a corruption investigation that has been simmering for months.
The arrests include high-ranking officers, according to multiple reports. News24 reported that the arrests took place on Tuesday, with the accused expected to appear in court alongside Matlala. TimesLIVE confirmed the number of arrests and the scale of the alleged fraud, stating the charges relate to a R360 million contract.
The investigation centers around allegations of tender irregularities related to a SAPS contract awarded to Matlala’s company. SABC News reported that evidence presented to a commission of inquiry suggested that Richard Shibiri, a top police official, had a potential conflict of interest related to the tender. Shibiri is currently facing a disciplinary hearing, scheduled for Monday, according to eNCA.
The alleged fraud involves the leaking of a confidential SAPS audit report to Matlala, as reported by Daily Maverick. Sibiya, another police official, has been questioned regarding this leak. The details of the leaked report and its potential impact on the tender process remain under investigation.
A R5 million budget has been allocated to a task team specifically tasked with probing police corruption, according to Sowetan. This dedicated team will work alongside existing investigative units to ensure a thorough examination of the allegations and the prosecution of those involved.
The arrests come as the Madlanga Commission continues its work, with controversial blogger Musa Khawula recently being named as a person of interest, according to EWN. While the connection between Khawula’s involvement and the SAPS tender fraud is not yet clear, it adds another layer of complexity to the unfolding investigation.
Richard Shibiri has stated he repaid a R70,000 “loan” from Matlala, as reported by Business Day. The nature of this transaction and its relevance to the broader corruption allegations are currently being examined by investigators.
Authorities have not yet commented on the specific roles played by each of the arrested officers, nor have they released details regarding the evidence that led to the arrests. The investigation is ongoing, and further arrests are possible.