Witness Tells Madlanga Commission Cassel Mathale Pushed For Musa Khawula Arrest

Startling testimony at the Madlanga commission of inquiry has linked the office of Deputy Police Minister Cassel Mathale to alleged pressure on police to arrest controversial celebrity basher Musa Khawula.

Witness F told the commission that senior political influence was applied to push through a warrant of arrest against Khawula following online remarks directed at ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula.

The allegation surfaced during questioning on the handling of a warrant for crimen injuria.

Madlanga commission Told Warrant Shared With Cat Matlala

Advocate Matthew Chaskalson SC, the commission’s chief evidence leader, questioned Witness F about why he sent a copy of the arrest warrant to alleged cartel member Vusi “Cat” Matlala.

The witness explained that the warrant was shared shortly after Khawula publicly exposed Matlala on social media. According to Witness F, the intention was for Matlala to assist police in locating Khawula.

When asked directly who was applying pressure for the arrest, Witness F replied:
“Cassel Mathale.”

Matlala allegedly responded to receiving the warrant with a brief message: “Asbonge” [Thank you].

The warrant cited charges of crimen injuria, with Mbalula and businessman Ze Nxumalo listed as complainants.

Legal History and Previous Arrests Come Into Focus

The commission also heard background relating to the complaints against Khawula.

In October 2024, Khawula made defamatory allegations about Ze Nxumalo, claiming:
“Dr Tamaryn Green-Nxumalo is with child while her husband Ze Nxumalo is cheating on her.”

Nxumalo subsequently issued a legal letter demanding a retraction, warning that failure to comply would result in criminal charges.

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Earlier, in July 2024, Khawula was sentenced to 90 days behind bars for contempt of court after refusing to obey a defamation ruling secured by Nozuko Mbalula, the wife of Fikile Mbalula. The order barred Khawula from posting corruption allegations about her on X.

The Madlanga commission continues to hear evidence into alleged political interference and criminal influence within law enforcement structures.