National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola is facing criminal charges in a widening corruption scandal tied to a tainted R360-million SAPS health services tender, awarded to Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the SAPS have confirmed that Masemola has been served with a notice to appear in court over the R360 million tender, as President Cyril Ramaphosa formally acknowledged the development.
NPA spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said Masemola has been served with a summons to appear in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on April 21. He declined to provide details on the charges, stating that the NPA cannot discuss the contents of the summons. According to the South African Government website, the NPA is responsible for instituting and conducting criminal prosecutions on behalf of the State.
SAPS Tender Scandal
SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed the summons relates to the Medicare 24 procurement tender. She said Masemola was served on Wednesday and will comply with the legal process. Mathe added that the national commissioner remains committed to the rule of law and will cooperate fully. “General Masemola welcomes any investigation or due process that seeks to address allegations of wrongdoing,” she said.
Ramaphosa’s Response
President Cyril Ramaphosa noted the charges and the broader arrests of 12 senior police officers linked to the same procurement matter. The Presidency said any action regarding Masemola will follow due legal process. “The President, working with the Minister of Police, is committed to ensuring that SAPS remains stable and able to continue fulfilling its policing mandate,” the Presidency said. For more information on the Presidency’s stance on corruption, visit the Presidency website.
Here are some key points to note about the scandal:
- 12 senior police officers have been arrested in connection with the controversial R360 million Medicare 24 contract
- The officers face serious charges including corruption and fraud
- The tender was awarded to Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, a businessman with alleged ties to high-ranking government officials
