A protected witness has told the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry that businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala allegedly handed suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner Lt-Gen Shadrack Sibiya millions in cash and gifts.

The testimony, delivered by Witness C for safety reasons, claims these payments included R2 million for a bed-and-breakfast and R300,000 for Sibiya’s son’s wedding.

Witness C said Matlala made the claims during a recorded conversation with police after his May 2025 arrest.

The payments, the witness testified, were part of a quid pro quo arrangement tied to a multi-million rand SAPS health-services tender, with some payments reportedly reaching R1 million a month.

Other alleged gifts included R200,000 left in a dustbin at Sibiya’s Pretoria office, 20 Impalas delivered to his property, and regular “money bags” dropped off at his home or a Sandton townhouse, sometimes via police officer Sergeant F.E. Nkosi.

The testimony also implicated KZN Hawks head Maj-Gen Lesetja Senona, who allegedly assisted Matlala’s company in securing the tender and received kickbacks. Witness C submitted WhatsApp messages as evidence of communication regarding contract payments.

Matlala reportedly grew frustrated with Sibiya when police raids on his properties continued, referring to the Sibiya as “a criminal” and a “pitbull,” and expressing fear for his own safety.

Sibiya has yet to testify before the commission. He previously told the Ad Hoc Committee that he knew Matlala as a service provider but was unaware of the tender’s details.

The Madlanga Commission continues its investigation into corruption and criminality within South Africa’s criminal justice system.