R360m SAPS Tender Scandal: 12 Arrested – Matlala & ‘Lover’ Involved

Twelve police officers, including a Brigadier, were arrested Tuesday evening and appeared in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, accused of assisting an alleged cartel leader in securing a R360 million tender from the South African Police Services (SAPS). Among those arrested is Brigadier Rachel Matjeng, who previously testified to a romantic relationship with Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, the alleged cartel leader.

The arrests were carried out by the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), according to reports. The officers face charges of fraud, money laundering, tender manipulation and violation of the Finance Act, linked to a tender awarded to Matlala’s company, Medicare24 Tshwane District.

Matjeng testified before the Madlanga Commission in February that Matlala had gifted her items, including Ozempic, a weight-loss drug costing approximately R4,500 per unit. She maintained that the money she received from Matlala – including R300,000 – was unrelated to her job and not a bribe to influence the tender process. She described the funds and gifts as stemming from their romantic relationship.

Evidence presented to the Madlanga Commission in February included proof of payments totaling R338,000 made to Matjeng between January and April 2025. The payments were initially made to an account belonging to someone named “Modiegi”, the owner of Osizweni Meat Market, who is reportedly a friend of Matjeng. Matjeng claimed some of the payments were intended for Modiegi, as Matlala allegedly owed him money, a claim Commissioner Mbuyiseli Madlanga found implausible.

Other officers arrested alongside Matjeng include General Busi Temba, Brigadier Ofentse Tlhoaele, Brigadier Kistey Jonker, Brigadier Thembinkosi Ngema, Colonel Nehemiah Maleka, Colonel Johannes Monyai, Captain Brian Catwright, and retired Colonel Anthony Paulsen.

The state is opposing bail for Matlala, according to reports. The matter is currently proceeding in court, with no immediate resolution announced.