National police commissioner General Fannie Masemola is set to face criminal charges related to Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala’s tainted R360 million health services tender. According to sources, Masemola was served with a warrant to secure his appearance in court, which is scheduled for 21 April.
Background of the Case
The case against Masemola follows a series of arrests by the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption, which saw 12 senior police officers, along with Matlala, face charges of fraud, corruption, and money laundering. Masemola will be the third serving National Police Commissioner to be charged, after Khomotso Phahlane and Jackie Selebi.
The charges against Masemola are understood to be related to his alleged flouting of the Public Finance Management Act. The Act, which is administered by the National Treasury, regulates the financial management of public entities, including the South African Police Service.
Reaction from the Presidency
In a statement, President Cyril Ramaphosa noted the latest development regarding Masemola and his scheduled court appearance. The Presidency stated that the president will be addressing the matter concerning General Masemola in accordance with the law and that he is committed to ensuring that the SAPS remains stable and able to continue fulfilling its policing mandate.
The following are some key points to note about the case:
- Masemola is set to appear in court on 21 April
- The charges against him are related to his alleged flouting of the Public Finance Management Act
- He will be the third serving National Police Commissioner to be charged
- The case is part of a broader investigation into corruption and fraud within the SAPS
The South African Police Service has been approached for comment and this will be added when received.
