R1m ‘appreciation’ request – Matlala drops explosive allegation against Cele

Day two of Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala’s testimony before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee included fresh allegations of police interference.

Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee heard more explosive allegations from businessman and attempted murdєr accused Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala on Thursday.The committee, which is probing claims of criminal infiltration, corruption, and political interference in South Africa’s criminal justice system, is holding its sitting at Kgosi Mampuru II Prison, where Matlala is currently detained.

Continuing his testimony, the alleged crime boss claimed that former police minister Bheki Cele requested a payment of R1 million while staying at Matlala’s luxury Pretoria apartment.

MATLALA AND CELE’S ALLEGED AGREEMENT

He told committee evidence leader Norman Arendse that he was unable to pay the full amount and instead made two payments of R300,000 and R200,000 earlier this year.

When Arendse asked how Cele came to stay at his apartment, Matlala said Cele had requested to stay there. He alleged that the initial conversation was witnessed by Bongani Mpungose, who has since passed away. Matlala recounted that Cele, speaking to Mpungose, said he felt Matlala was not showing appreciation for assisting with calling off a police interrogation. Cele allegedly told him that merely staying at the apartment “won’t pay my bills.”

“He [Cele] said to me that if you can give me one million, he will appreciate that,” Matlala testified.

The committee also heard that the payments were made in cash, stashed in a Woolworths shopping bag before being handed over to Cele. Matlala added that he had intended to pay an additional R500,000 but ultimately decided against it.

CELE’S TESTIMONY

During his own testimony in October, Cele claimed that he did not know Matlala despite previously staying at his apartment. He said he was offered the accommodation and could not pass up “freebies” as a pensioner.

Cele admitted to having met Matlala but denied influencing any SAPS contracts linked to him, including an alleged R360-million tender.