Forensic expert Calvin Rafadi vows to clear his name at the Madlanga Commission following accusations of evidence tampering

Mapaballo Borotho

Forensic expert Calvin Rafadi says he is ready to defend his reputation at the Madlanga Commission following allegations from KZN Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
He faces accusations of tampering with digital evidence and sharing sensitive information with businessman Vusi “Cat” Matlala.
Rafadi insists he will use the inquiry to clear his name, despite evidence of payments and WhatsApp exchanges presented at the commission.

Forensic expert and crime analyst Calvin Rafadi says he is ready to defend his image at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry following allegations made against him by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

Rafadi stands accused of tampering with digital evidence and allegedly sharing crucial investigation information with controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.

He revealed that he has been given two options to respond to the accusations made by General Mkhwanazi at the inquiry.

While he does not deny knowing Matlala, Rafadi clarified that the two grew up together in Mamelodi and have previously conducted business dealings.

The Pretoria-based forensic investigator is also one of the leading investigators in the double murder case of journalist Aserie Ndlovu and his partner Zodwa Mdhluli.

Speaking to Kaya News after five men accused of the journalists’ murder appeared in the Kwamhlanga Magistrate’s Court in Mpumalanga earlier this week, Rafadi said he is pleased to have an opportunity to clear his name before the commission.

Meanwhile, the Madlanga Commission has been shown evidence of several payments made to Rafadi by Matlala, with WhatsApp messages between the two taking center stage during proceedings this week.

[MR RAFADI]

• Between 9 and 10 January 2025 – Mr Rafadi requests financial assistance for registering for a PhD. In response, Mr Matlala makes a payment to Rafadi’s company Bizztracers for R 20 000. He later makes further requests for tuition fees, but Mr Matlala indicates… pic.twitter.com/iApvh0smgr

— Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (@CrimeWatch_RSA) October 15, 2025