Cat Matlala associate arrested over alleged forged bank statements

Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala

Johannesburg – A close associate of alleged underworld figure Vusumuzi “Cat” Matlala has been arrested in Pretoria over allegations that he falsified bank statements to help Matlala secure a R95,000-a-month lease.

According to eNCA, the suspect was arrested on Tuesday after previously being questioned by the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) in June.

His Pretoria East home was also raided by the PKTT in June before he was released.

The suspect is accused of allegedly forging bank statements to support Matlala’s application for a lease agreement in Waterkloof. eNCA reported that Matlala allegedly used an eSwatini identity document when applying for the lease.

The latest arrest follows growing scrutiny of Matlala’s business and personal dealings as he faces several criminal cases.

Matlala withdrew from a plea and sentence agreement with the State in July and is now standing trial on charges including fraud, corruption and money laundering.

The charges are linked to allegations surrounding a controversial SAPS health-services tender awarded to Matlala’s company, Medicare24 Tshwane District.

Matlala had previously pleaded guilty to colluding with senior government officials to secure a R228 million police health and wellness tender. His company received R50 million before the contract was cancelled.

The NPA has also brought separate corruption and fraud charges against Matlala in connection with an alleged scheme involving Ekurhuleni Metro Police vehicles and his private security company. The State alleges that officials falsely represented that a valid agreement existed and facilitated the registration of vehicles fitted with blue lights and sirens.

The latest fraud investigation adds to the growing number of allegations and criminal proceedings involving Matlala and people linked to him.

The identity of the newly arrested associate has not been disclosed in the eNCA report, and the allegations against him have not been tested in court.

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