A detective testifying at the Madlanga Commission on Oct. 30, 2025, said attempted murder accused Vusimuzi Cat Matlala described paying R80,000 to Major General Richard Shibiri, the national head of organized crime. The account, drawn from a four-hour recording made with Matlala’s consent after his May 14 arrest, also alleged regular payments to senior police figures and funds directed to political events. Shibiri remains in his post. Commission evidence is set for forensic review against bank records and contracts.
The testimony placed Matlala at the center of a network of alleged payoffs tied to protection and interference in cases. Claims referenced suspended Deputy National Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya, a Crime Intelligence official who purportedly sought R2.5 million, and support said to total millions for favored projects. Matlala, denied bail, faces charges tied to an alleged plot against his former partner, Tebogo Thobejane. Witnesses from Gauteng counterintelligence operations portrayed close ties between Matlala and senior officers. The allegations land as South Africa reports more than 27,000 murders a year, deepening concern about accountability in the police service.
The testimony placed Matlala at the center of a network of alleged payoffs tied to protection and interference in cases. Claims referenced suspended Deputy National Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya, a Crime Intelligence official who purportedly sought R2.5 million, and support said to total millions for favored projects. Matlala, denied bail, faces charges tied to an alleged plot against his former partner, Tebogo Thobejane. Witnesses from Gauteng counterintelligence operations portrayed close ties between Matlala and senior officers. The allegations land as South Africa reports more than 27,000 murders a year, deepening concern about accountability in the police service.
