SAPS Report Recommends Prosecution of Bheki Cele Over Alleged Gratification From Matlala-Linked Companies
A 370-page SAPS forensic report has recommended that former police minister Bheki Cele be criminally prosecuted for allegedly receiving unlawful “gratification” from companies linked to Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala, including cash payments and free luxury accommodation, according to Sunday Times.
The report, completed in April, identified a “specific pattern” of large cash withdrawals from Matlala-linked companies within days of his meetings with Cele.
Investigators also examined Cele’s stays at a penthouse at The Capital Menlyn Maine in Pretoria, which had been leased by Matlala. Cele has acknowledged staying there for free but has denied receiving any money from Matlala.
Matlala previously told Parliament’s ad hoc committee that he paid Cele R300,000 and later R200,000, claiming the former minister had initially wanted R1 million. Cele has denied receiving the money, saying: “If they say I got money, they must show me bank receipts which show that I received the money.”
The report also recommends the prosecution of Matlala, Captain Brian Cartwright, Brigadier Petunia Lenono and Lieutenant-General Molefe Fani.
The forensic report was included in a 30 September Pretoria High Court application by National Coloured Congress leader Fadiel Adams, who is challenging the decision to drop criminal charges against suspended national police commissioner General Fannie Masemola in connection with the Medicare24 tender.
The allegations against Cele have not been tested in court.
