Madlanga commission: Matlala accuses IDAC of pressure and threats
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on IOL
Alleged cartel leader Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala is due back before the Madlanga commission on Tuesday. He admits paying 50,000 rand to former deputy police commissioner Shadrack Sibiya, while disputing other bribery allegations, according to IOL.
Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala, presented as the alleged head of a cartel, accuses officials of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) of pressure and threats. According to IOL, he made these statements on Monday before the Madlanga commission, the commission of inquiry into corruption within the South African police, where he also disputed elements of his testimony and repeatedly invoked his right not to incriminate himself.
Matlala admits having handed 50,000 rand to Shadrack Sibiya, former deputy national police commissioner, but denies the broader allegations of payments of 500,000 rand, 300,000 rand, or multi-million rand monthly bribes. His testimony is due to resume on Tuesday.
The commission also rejected the argument of his lawyers that his statement under section 204, made as part of his failed negotiations with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), could not be used. Retired judge Mbuyiseli Madlanga, the commission’s chair, said: "I reject the arguments put forward by Matlala’s legal representatives". He specified that the restrictions on publication of this statement apply only to criminal proceedings. The challenge was brought by advocate Anneline van den Heever SC, who argues that this statement is inseparable from the failed plea agreement. Madlanga said the proceedings would continue, unless a court orders otherwise.
