The unfolding drama at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has drawn in another high-profile figure, with former National Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega issuing a firm denial of ever meeting controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.
The denial comes in direct response to explosive testimony from “Witness C,” a detective involved in Matlala’s arrest, who stated that Matlala claimed to have been at Phiyega’s Midrand home on the very day he was taken into custody in May 2025. Matlala faces serious charges, including attempted murder and conspiracy to commit murder, in connection with an alleged hit on his former partner.
In a clear and concise statement, Phiyega distanced herself entirely from the tender tycoon. She explicitly denied that Matlala was ever at her home on 13 May 2025 and asserted that she had never met him. This rebuttal sets up a direct contradiction between her account and the claims attributed to Matlala by the arresting officer.
Phiyega, who was appointed by former President Jacob Zuma in 2012 and subsequently suspended and removed from her post in 2017 over allegations of misconduct and perjury, is now seeking to clear her name from this new association. Demonstrating the seriousness with which she views the allegation, she has formally requested an opportunity from the Madlanga Commission to challenge Witness C’s testimony directly.
This development adds a new layer of intrigue to the commission’s work, pitting the word of a former police chief against testimony about the claims of an accused criminal, and further illuminating the complex web of connections under investigation.
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