Pretoria - Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala has made explosive allegations before Parliament's SAPS Ad Hoc Committee, claiming that former police minister Bheki Cele demanded a R1-million bribe. Matlala testified that he ultimately paid Cele R500,000 in two separate installments.
According to Matlala's testimony, the initial agreement involved a R1-million payment. He stated, "I gave him three (R300,000) and again I gave him two (R200,000) like I mentioned." Matlala further claimed that he ceased payments when he was scheduled to deliver another R300,000, deciding instead to avoid Cele's calls.
The alleged R300,000 cash bribe was reportedly transported in an ordinary Woolworths shopping bag. Matlala specified that the funds were withdrawn from an FNB bank located at the Menlyn Maine shopping centre in Pretoria.
Key Takeaways from Matlala's Testimony:
- Bheki Cele allegedly demanded R1 million in bribe money.
- Matlala claims to have paid R500,000 in two installments.
- Cash was allegedly transported in a Woolworths shopping bag.
- Funds were withdrawn from an FNB bank at Menlyn Maine.
These allegations, made before a parliamentary committee investigating corruption within the criminal justice system, are sure to ignite a significant public debate. The Ad Hoc Committee will now need to carefully consider Matlala's testimony and determine the next steps in their investigation.
What's Next?
The SAPS Ad Hoc Committee is expected to further investigate these allegations, potentially calling Bheki Cele to respond to Matlala's claims. The outcome of this investigation could have serious implications for Cele and the broader South African political landscape.