By Mapaballo Borotho and Andile Khuzwayo
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has arrested 12 senior South African Police Service (SAPS) officers in connection with a R360 million tender scandal linked to controversial businessman Vusumuzi “Cat” Matlala.
The tender was awarded to Medicare24 Tshwane District, a company where Matlala is listed as the sole director.
The accused appeared before the Pretoria Magistrates Court on 25 March 2026, facing charges including:
- Fraud
- Corruption
- Violations of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA)
Bail outcomes:
- Officials: Granted bail ranging from R40,000 to R80,000
- Matlala: Remains in custody
What went wrong?
According to NPA spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago:
- Treasury regulations were violated
- The Bid Evaluation Committee favoured Medicare24 improperly
- The company:
- Lacked adequate facilities
- Had insufficient equipment and staff
- Despite this, the contract was awarded
Over R50 million was paid to Matlala before the contract was cancelled
Why this case matters
This scandal exposes systemic issues in public procurement:
- Collusion between officials and private entities
- Weak oversight in law enforcement procurement
- Abuse of power for personal financial gain
“Government officials are compromising themselves and their institutions just to make money on the side or repay favours.” said NPA’s spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago
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