R360m SAPS Tender Scandal: Brigadier Rachel Matjeng Among 12 arrested, Linked As ‘Cat’ Matlala’s Lover

Twelve police officers appeared in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday following their arrest in connection with an alleged irregular R360 million tender linked to the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The group was arrested during a raid conducted by the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) on Tuesday evening. They face charges including fraud, money laundering, tender manipulation, and violations of the Finance Act.

The case centres around a SAPS health services tender awarded to Medicare24 Tshwane District, a company reportedly owned by alleged cartel figure Vusimuzi Matlala.

Brigadier Claims Romantic Relationship With Matlala

Among those appearing in court is Rachel Matjeng, who previously testified before the Madlanga Commission that she was romantically involved with Matlala.

Matjeng told the commission that the money and gifts she received from him were not linked to any official duties.

She said Matlala “showered” her with gifts, including Ozempic, a weight loss drug valued at approximately R4,500 per unit.

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When questioned about R300,000 she allegedly received, Matjeng maintained it was unrelated to her role within SAPS and not a bribe tied to the tender.

Multiple Senior Officers Implicated In Tender Fraud

The case involves several high-ranking officers, including Busi Temba, Ofentse Tlhoaele, Kistey Jonker, Thembinkosi Ngema, Nehemiah Maleka, Johannes Monyai, Brian Catwright, and retired colonel Anthony Paulsen.

Authorities allege that the officers assisted Matlala in securing the lucrative contract through irregular means.

Investigations are ongoing as the accused prepare to respond to the charges in court.