Alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala has denied having any personal or professional relationship with suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and suspended Crime Intelligence deputy head Feroz Khan.
Matlala made the claims while testifying before the Madlanga Commission on Monday, where he is being questioned about his alleged links to senior police officials.
The businessman has also declined to answer questions relating to the controversial Tshwane Medicare24 tender, citing the matter as sub judice.
“While I am willing to assist the commission as best as possible, save to say that I am unable to comment on matters that are sub judice. I am in any event entitled to be presumed innocent until proven guilty,” Matlala told the commission.
Addressing questions about his alleged relationship with Mchunu, Matlala said he had never met the suspended minister and had no personal interactions with him.
“I do not have a relationship with Minister Senzo Mchunu. I have never met the minister and have had no interactions with him, nor have I been at any gatherings where he was present,” he said.
Matlala, whose companies were awarded a R228-million South African Police Service (SAPS) tender, said the only communication he had with Mchunu was indirect and took place through his legal representatives.
He said the communication related to a letter submitted to Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee.
Matlala also denied having a relationship with Mkhwanazi, although he confirmed that the two had met once in March 2025.
According to Matlala, the meeting was initiated by him and was held to discuss the SAPS tender that has since become the subject of controversy.
Former KwaZulu-Natal Hawks head Lesetja Senona was also present during the meeting, Matlala said.
However, Matlala confirmed that he had previously known former SAPS national commissioner Khomotso Phahlane.
He told the commission that he could not recall how many times they had met, but said the meetings took place, to the best of his knowledge, after Phahlane had left the SAPS.
Despite knowing Phahlane, Matlala denied ever having any business dealings with him.
“Nor have I ever asked for any favours from him or offered him any gratifications,” he said.
Matlala further denied having any relationships with SAPS Supply Chain Divisional Commissioner Molefe Fani and Khan.
His testimony forms part of the commission’s broader investigation into allegations of corruption, political interference and criminality within the South African police service.