Cachalia says Dimpane not implicated in R360m Medicare24 tender

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia defended Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, asserting she has "an untainted record of public service" and played no role in the awarding of the Medicare24 Tshwane District contract. Cachalia explained that Dimpane became involved in the contract only after the Audit Committee identified irregular expenditure, stopped payments, ensured proper recording of the expenditure, and advocated for a forensic investigation that led to the contract's cancellation.

He emphasized that Dimpane had undergone a thorough vetting process and held a top-secret security clearance valid until July 30, 2029. Cachalia rejected accusations of Dimpane's involvement in any impropriety currently under investigation by the Madlanga Commission and dismissed suggestions that she was remiss in her responsibilities as SAPS chief financial officer in relation to the contract.

He clarified that the CFO is not involved in any stage of contract awarding, attributing her involvement to the Audit Committee's findings of irregular expenditure. Cachalia defended Dimpane's appointment, citing her integrity, competence, and professionalism, and noted that her appointment reflects the government's commitment to empowering women in the police service.