Matlala’s testimony hit by fire alarm, legal standoff and denials | Madlanga Commission wrap

South Africa - Pretoria - 17 August 2026 - Controversial businessman Vusimuzi Matlala, appeared at the Madlanga commission of inquiry.

Alleged crime boss, Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s highly anticipated testimony at the Madlanga Commission delivered more disruption than answers on Monday, as an emergency evacuation, fierce legal resistance and repeated claims of self-incrimination as well as the emergency evacuation.

The testimony was expected to shed light on allegations of corruption surrounding a R228 million SAPS health-services tender.

Matlala’s appearance had already become a legal flashpoint after his lawyer, Anneline van der Heeven challenged many of the questions from the evidence leaders.

His testimony was initially pushed to September after lawyers warned that questioning him about issues linked to his criminal case could prejudice his pending trial.

Minutes before his scheduled 9.30am appearance at Pretoria’s Brigitte Mabandla Justice College, proceedings were abruptly derailed when a fire alarm triggered an evacuation.

The Tshwane Emergency Services responded to fire alarm at the Madlanga Commission on Monday.

Tshwane emergency services and police descended on the venue as the building was cleared before proceedings could resume.

When Matlala finally faced the commission, he came armed with a constitutional shield.

“I am entitled to be presumed innocent until proven guilty,” he told the commission.

That position hardened when questioning moved towards Medicare24 and the R228 million SAPS health-services contract.

Matlala invoked his right against self-incrimination and refused to delve into allegations forming part of his pending criminal proceedings before the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court.

Matlala rejected allegations that he had a relationship with Police Minister Senzo Mchunu , saying through his legal team that he did not know the minister and denying claims of meetings or financial links.

He also challenged allegations by intermediary Brown Mogotsi concerning supposed secret meetings at the home of KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.