Particle.news
Download on the App Store

EMPD Inquiry Hears Claims Forged MOUs Gave ‘Cat’ Matlala’s Firms Policing Powers

A retired deputy chief testified that unlawful agreements let private companies linked to an attempted‑murder accused act as police.

Overview

  • Revo Spies told the Madlanga Commission that Brig. Julius Mkhwanazi forged or altered documents and signed MOUs that effectively outsourced core policing functions to Cat VIP and Medicare 24.
  • Spies said Mkhwanazi authorised blue lights on Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s private vehicles and registered them as municipal assets, granting de facto official status.
  • He testified that the deals offered EMPD use of a helicopter limited to two flight hours per month and luxury vehicles, and gave Medicare 24 roles such as drawing blood and offering “legal advice” during operations.
  • WhatsApp messages and an operational plan produced by Mkhwanazi were tabled, with Spies questioning the plan’s authenticity while describing granted access to EMPD surveillance systems.
  • Spies detailed out‑of‑jurisdiction raids, stalled discipline and a climate of fear, as the DA said the council never approved any Cat VIP MOU; Mkhwanazi is on special leave and the EMPD chief remains suspended.