Madlanga Commission: Shadrack Sibiya Firmly Denies Friendship With Alleged Kingpin Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala

Suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya has rejected claims that he shared a close friendship with alleged criminal kingpin Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.

Appearing before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry on Wednesday, Sibiya acknowledged that he knew Matlala and had met him on several occasions. However, he maintained that their interactions did not amount to a personal relationship.

His testimony is expected to continue on Thursday as the commission probes matters linked to policing and governance.

Shadrack Sibiya Denies Close Ties to Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala at Madlanga Commission

Addressing the commission, Sibiya directly challenged allegations that he was close to Matlala.

“The national commissioner alleges that it was indicated to him that I am close friends with Matlala. I vehemently deny that I am or have ever been a close friend of Matlala.”

He told the inquiry that while communication between them had taken place, it did not develop into a friendship.

“We didn’t develop a friendship, but we have interacted but not to a level or a point where I can say ‘we are now friends’.”

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: EFF Calls For SIU Investigation Into Health Department ARV Tender Contracts

Sibiya explained that he first encountered Matlala in January 2024, when Matlala visited his office.

According to his testimony, Matlala sought assistance to use a police college facility in connection with work related to his approximately R360 million police health scheme tender.

Sibiya is scheduled to remain on the stand for the remainder of the week as proceedings at the commission continue.