Cat Matlala admits connection to Hangwani Maumela

Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala, an alleged cartel boss, has revealed his connection to Hangwani Morgan Maumela, a relationship that began with a shared passion for sports cars. The two reportedly first met in 2015 or 2016 through their mutual interest in vehicles, often gathering at restaurants in Sandton to discuss their cars. As their bond grew, so did their business ventures, with Matlala stating they began investing in projects together and sharing profits.

Matlala's account of their association comes amid a broader investigation into alleged corruption within Gauteng's health procurement system. The Gauteng Department of Health employed whistleblower Babita Deokaran, who uncovered suspicious payments worth over R850 million at Tembisa Hospital and raised concerns about fraudulent companies benefiting from irregular procurement.

Deokaran was tragically killed outside her Johannesburg residence on August 23, 2021, after advocating for a forensic investigation into the suspected network.

Maumela is among several individuals accused of involvement in looting more than R2 billion from Tembisa Hospital. Allegations include using 41 front companies to submit fraudulent invoices and siphoning over R816 million. Matlala has also been implicated in the allegations, with three of his companies allegedly part of Maumela's network and responsible for securing R13.5 million in fraudulent healthcare tenders.