Vusimuzi Matlala stated that Mike Van Wyk is not his friend while appearing before the Madlanga commission

Controversial businessman Vusimuzi Matlala appeared at the Madlanga commission hearings. He stated that he cannot call Medicare CEO Mike Van Wyk his friend.

Matlala noted that his relationship with Mike Van Wyk is the subject of litigation. He added: 'My relationship with Mike Van Wyk is the subject of a case pending in court.' He emphasized that he did not wish to incriminate himself, as Mike held the position of CEO of his company Medicare, which had a contract with SAPS. Therefore, Matlala exercised his right not to testify against himself.

Matlala, who is accused of corruption, was questioned about alleged connections with high-ranking police officials, including Mchunu, KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nlanghlu Mkhwanazi, Deputy National Commissioner Shradack Sibiyu, and Crime Unit Head Major General Ferosa Khan.

Lead investigator Malape Sello also mentioned the suspended KwaZulu-Natal Hawks head Lesetdju Senono and organized crime senior officer Robert Sibiri. However, Matlala did not provide exhaustive answers regarding all the named officials.

On the matter of Mchunu, Matlala was unequivocal. He stated: 'I have no relationship with Minister Senzo Mchunu. I have never met Mchunu nor had any contact with him, nor attended any meetings where he was present.' When Sello asked him about attempting to offer Mchunu a gift, benefit, or temptation, Matlala denied it. He also rejected any suggestion that he sought favor from the minister or communicated with him through intermediaries.

These denials apparently distance Matlala from allegations related to businessman Brown Mogotosi, who is accused of trying to establish contact with Mchunu on his behalf. Furthermore, Matlala was questioned about his alleged connections with the suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police Ekurhuleni Metro Julius Mkhwanazi and other police officers.

The growing list of names intensifies questions about Matlala's alleged access to high-ranking law enforcement officials. Nevertheless, he explained that he intentionally omitted some names from his additional statement. Matlala clarified that he had reasons for this exclusion, citing recordings in which he allegedly claimed corrupt ties with high-ranking police officers. Matlala disputed certain points in these recordings. His refusal to elaborate leaves key questions open regarding the alleged police network at the center of the investigation. The investigation continues.