Controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala has appeared before the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court in Gauteng, joining 12 other accused in a high-profile corruption case linked to the R360 million Medicare24 tender.
Matlala is appearing alongside thirteen accused, including senior South African Police Service (SAPS) officers and executives linked to Medicare24. The group faces charges of corruption, fraud, and contravention of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).
Among the accused is Medicare24 Group managing director James Murray, as well as Matlala, who is listed as accused number one and is the majority shareholder of Medicare24 Tshwane District.
Matlala arrived late at court as he remains in custody on separate serious charges. He is currently facing more than 20 charges in the Johannesburg High Court, including 11 counts of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering.
These charges relate to multiple incidents between August 2022 and January 2024, including an alleged failed hit on his former girlfriend and socialite Tebogo Thobejane in October 2023.
The SAPS officials facing charges include General Busi Temba, Brigadier Ofentse Tlhoaele, Brigadier Kistey Jonker, Brigadier Thembinkosi Ngema, Colonel Nehemiah Maleka, Colonel Johannes Monyai, Captain Brian Cartwright, Colonel Anthony Paulsen, Brigadier Rachelle Matjeng, Brigadier Petunia Lenono, Colonel Nonjabulo Mngadi, and Brigadier Patrick Nethengwe.
They are accused of playing a role in facilitating the irregular awarding of the 2024 Medicare24 tender.
The arrests were carried out by the National Prosecuting Authority’s Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) following coordinated raids as part of a broader investigation into procurement irregularities within SAPS.
The controversial tender was later cancelled amid concerns over fronting, compliance failures, and possible undue influence in the awarding process.
The matter was previously flagged by Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu, who is currently on special leave.