SAPS Official Rachel Matjeng Dismissed Following Corruption and Misconduct Investigation
Senior SAPS official Brigadier Rachel Matjeng has been dismissed after being found guilty of serious misconduct. The case involves an illicit relationship with underworld figure Vusumuzi 'Cat' Matlala and corruption regarding a multi-million rand medical services tender for police officers.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
1 MIN READ- Brigadier Rachel Matjeng was dismissed from the SAPS effective 30 June 2026.
- She was found guilty of misconduct involving underworld figure Vusumuzi “Cat” Matlala.
- The scandal relates to a R360-million fraudulent medical services tender awarded to Medicare24.
- Matjeng still faces active criminal charges of fraud and corruption in court.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has officially terminated the employment of Brigadier Rachel Matjeng following the conclusion of an internal disciplinary investigation. The dismissal, which became effective on 30 June 2026, stems from her documented involvement with Vusumuzi “Cat” Matlala, a figure identified as an underworld operator linked to significant corruption within police tender processes.
Misconduct Findings Against Rachel Matjeng
During the internal proceedings, Rachel Matjeng was found guilty of several grave charges, including the acceptance of illicit gratification, money laundering, and failing to act in the best interests of the SAPS. Investigators determined that she had provided Vusumuzi “Cat” Matlala with confidential information, specifically a list containing details of police personnel, with the intent of securing personal financial gain. This conduct was categorized as severely prejudicial to the administration of justice.
The investigation into Rachel Matjeng is part of a broader scrutiny regarding a massive R360-million medical tender awarded to Medicare24. Vusumuzi “Cat” Matlala, who controlled the entity, has already entered a plea agreement regarding the fraudulent nature of the contract. Reports indicate that at least R300,000 in kickbacks were funneled to Rachel Matjeng through proxy channels, including a butchery in Tembisa, to influence the referral of police officers for medical screenings.
Commission Testimony and Legal Proceedings
Earlier this year, Rachel Matjeng provided testimony before the Madlanga Commission, which is currently examining claims of criminal infiltration within law enforcement agencies. Throughout these proceedings, she maintained that her relationship with Vusumuzi “Cat” Matlala was romantic rather than professional, asserting that the money and gifts she received were personal gestures. Her legal team previously argued that these interactions were not bribe-related, despite the evidence presented during the disciplinary hearing.
The dismissal has been welcomed by acting police national commissioner Puleng Dimpane, who emphasized that such actions demonstrate a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption within the ranks of the SAPS. Beyond the disciplinary dismissal, Rachel Matjeng continues to face separate criminal charges, including fraud and corruption, currently before the Pretoria magistrate’s court. The case remains a significant point of interest as authorities continue to address the deep-rooted issues of collusion between high-ranking officials and external business interests.
