Minister Senzo Mchunu Denies Links to Criminal Kingpin Amidst Allegations
South Africa’s Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, has firmly denied any links to alleged criminal kingpin Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala, following serious accusations made by KwaZulu-Natal Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi on Sunday. Mchunu emphasized that he has never met or communicated with Matlala, asserting that his connection to Brown Mogotsi is purely as a comrade, despite recent controversies surrounding a terminated SAPS tender linked to Mogotsi.
Minister Denies Links to Alleged Criminal Kingpin
Senzo Mchunu, the Minister of Police, firmly denied any links to Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, stating, “the minister has never met Mr. Matlala, has never spoken to him…”.
Mchunu’s spokesperson reiterated the minister’s position, clarifying that he never communicated with Matlala or received anything from him, emphasizing a lack of association.
These statements come in response to allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused Mchunu’s office of interference with police operations.
Allegations Around Tender Awards and Corruption
While Mchunu maintains he only knows Brown Mogotsi as a comrade, reports suggest he initiated a review of a controversial SAPS tender linked to Mogotsi.
In May 2025, the national police commissioner dismissed Matlala’s contract, citing procedural failures, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding corruption within the police department.
The alleged involvement of Mogotsi and Matlala in a network of corruption was reportedly uncovered during an investigation related to Matlala’s recent arrest.
In light of the serious allegations made against him, Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu has firmly distanced himself from any links to Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, asserting that he has never met or communicated with the alleged underworld figure. Mchunu emphasized that the claims by KwaZulu-Natal Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi are unfounded, as he has never sought or received anything from Matlala. His spokesperson further clarified that while Mchunu is acquainted with Brown Mogotsi, whom he referred to as a “comrade,” that relationship does not imply any wrongdoing or collusion.
Mchunu’s response comes after Mkhwanazi accused him and Mogotsi of being involved in corrupt dealings related to a substantial SAPS tender awarded to Matlala. In a bid to maintain transparency, Mchunu stated that he had already initiated a review of the tender awarded to Mogotsi once suspicions arose, highlighting his commitment to accountability within the police force. He reiterated his intentions to uphold the integrity of the SAPS, urging calm among the public following these troubling allegations.
The allegations also raise significant concerns about police operations and the potential influence of political figures on law enforcement activities. As the matter unfolds, with heightened scrutiny on the connections between the minister, Mogotsi, and Matlala, Mchunu’s denial of any collaboration reflects a broader ambition to protect both his reputation and the trust placed in the police ministry. The complexity of the situation underscores the need for a thorough investigation into the claims made by Mkhwanazi and a call for accountability within the ranks of law enforcement.
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