By Mapaballo Borotho

- Alleged crime kingpin Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala has pleaded guilty to fraud, corruption, and money laundering charges linked to the controversial R360 million Medicare24 tender.
- Matlala entered into a plea agreement with the NPA’s Investigating Directorate Against Corruption, although the court will determine his final sentence.
- The tender scandal has also implicated several senior police officials, including suspended National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola.
Alleged crime kingpin and suspected member of the Big 5 cartel, Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, has pleaded guilty to the fraud, corruption, and money laundering charges levelled against him.
The charges relate to the controversial R360 million Medicare24 tender, which was allegedly awarded fraudulently to Matlala’s company.
Matlala appeared before the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on Thursday morning, 25 June 2026, where he also entered into a plea agreement with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
The plea agreement was concluded between Matlala and the NPA’s Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) and includes a deviation from the prescribed sentence. However, the final terms and sentence will be determined by the court.
Medicare24 tender under scrutiny
Matlala is accused of playing a central role in alleged irregularities surrounding a controversial multi-million-rand South African Police Service (SAPS) tender awarded to his company, Medicare24 Tshwane District.
The contract has been plagued by allegations of corruption, fraud, and improper influence.
The multi-million-rand tender has also implicated at least 17 senior police officials, including suspended National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola.
The matter remains one of the most high-profile corruption cases involving SAPS procurement processes in recent years.
The magistrate is now considering whether to ratify the plea and sentence agreement.
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