Fannie Masemola to face criminal charges over Cat Matlala’s R360m Saps tender

2026-03-25 - 13:50

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola is set to be formally charged in connection with the R360 million South African Police Service (Saps) health services tender awarded to criminally accused businessman Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala. Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe confirmed that Masemola was issued with a court summons on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, requiring him to appear before the court. He is scheduled to make his court appearance on 21 April. “General Fannie Masemola remains fully committed to upholding the rule of law and the integrity of the office he serves. “He has taken note of the charges brought against him and he has pledged his full cooperation, with all lawful processes. “He welcomes any investigation or any lawful process that seeks to address any allegations of wrongdoing, as this is the right and necessary course to ensure that we instil that public confidence and public trust in our institution,” Mathe told the media at the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday. Masemola’s impending court appearance follows a wave of arrests by the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (Idac) this week. At least 12 police officers, along with Matlala, have been charged with fraud, corruption and money laundering in connection with the R360 million tender. The Saps members were granted bail ranging between R80 000 and R40 000 on Wednesday. NOW READ: Saps CFO describes Cat Matlala contract as an ’embarrassment’