SAPS Commissioner Masemola Faces Tender Fraud Charges

National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola appeared in the Pretoria Magistrates Court on Tuesday, facing charges under the Public Finance Management Act related to alleged irregularities in a R360 million South African Police Service contract for health and wellness services. The case, involving multiple senior officials and businessman Vusimuzi Cat Matlala, was postponed to May 13.

The charges stem from Masemola's role as accounting officer for the tender awarded in June 2024 to Matlala's company, Medicare 24 Tshwane District. Authorities allege procurement flaws, including favoritism and failures in oversight, leading to the contract's cancellation in May 2025 after an audit. The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption has linked the matter to fraud, corruption, and money laundering, with payments transferred shortly after the award. Among the 13 co-accused police officers are Brigadier Rachel Matjeng, who allegedly received benefits from Matlala, and others including Brigadier Kirsty Jonker, Colonel Anton Paulsen, and retired Brigadier Petunia Lenono. Matlala and at least 15 others face related charges.

Speaking outside court, Masemola denied any misconduct. "I did my...