Matlala to face further questioning over affidavit contradictions

Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala, an accused member of a crime cartel, is set to return to the witness stand at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry on Tuesday. The Commission is likely to examine discrepancies between Matlala's spoken testimony and his Section 204 affidavit, some of which he alleges were fabricated by investigators from the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC).

The inquiry will also delve into his account of alleged payments, his connections to high-ranking police officials, and meetings related to the SAPS health tender. Matlala has consistently denied that former SAPS Deputy National Commissioner for Crime Detection, Shadrack Sibiya, profited from the tender and has challenged claims made in his affidavit and consultation notes.

During questioning before the Commission, Matlala contested the accuracy of his Section 204 affidavit, alleging that IDAC investigators Dylan Perumal, Suneel Bellochun, and Brian Padayachee were responsible for drafting the statement, which he claims contained inaccuracies and information not provided by him. Matlala further alleged that investigators coerced him into becoming a state witness, offering him leniency in exchange for his cooperation.

Advocate Adila Hassim, representing Matlala, questioned investigators about their tactics to compel Matlala's testimony: "Mr. Perumal, Mr. Padyaj, and Mr. Belucham... and how did they compel you to do this, to sign it? Not compelling me in using violence, but they said it's either this." Matlala responded by outlining the trial's anticipated duration and suggesting a choice between facing a five-year trial in witness protection with his family or awaiting trial.

The inquiry will also scrutinize Matlala's assertions regarding alleged payments and Sibiya's alleged financial benefits from the tender.