Former police minister faces possible criminal prosecution following forensic investigation into alleged dealings with ‘Cat’ Matlala Former Police Minister Bheki Cele could face criminal charges following a police forensic investigation into his alleged dealings with controversial businessman Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala.
A 370-page forensic report, reportedly completed in April 2026, has recommended that Cele be criminally prosecuted over allegations that he received unlawful benefits from companies linked to Matlala, including luxury accommodation and alleged cash payments.
The investigation reportedly examined financial records belonging to Matlala-linked companies and identified patterns of large cash withdrawals around the time of meetings between Matlala and Cele.
Matlala previously told Parliament’s ad hoc committee that he allegedly paid Cele R500,000 in two instalments — R300,000 in January 2025 and R200,000 in March 2025.Matlala claimed the payments were connected to his attempts to obtain assistance following problems involving his SAPS contract and firearms seized by police.
Cele has denied receiving any money from Matlala.In response to the latest allegations, Cele reportedly challenged investigators to produce evidence showing that money was paid to him.“If they say I got money, they must show me bank receipts,” Cele told the Sunday Times.
The penthouse allegationsThe forensic investigation also reportedly examined Cele’s stays at a luxury penthouse at The Capital Menlyn Maine in Pretoria, which had been leased by Matlala.
According to the report, Matlala instructed hotel management in January 2025 to allow Cele access to the penthouse whenever he was in Pretoria. Investigators reportedly obtained keycard records showing that the apartment was occupied during the period under investigation.
Cele has acknowledged staying at the penthouse but has disputed that doing so constituted wrongdoing, arguing that he had already left his position as police minister.
Could Cele actually be arrested?
The forensic report’s recommendation for criminal prosecution does not mean that Cele has been arrested or that an arrest is imminent.
Further investigation and prosecutorial decisions would still be required before criminal charges could proceed.
An arrest, if considered necessary by law-enforcement authorities, would be a separate step.
The latest development nevertheless puts renewed attention on Cele’s relationship with Matlala and comes amid broader investigations into alleged corruption and political interference within South Africa’s criminal justice system.
Parliament’s ad hoc committee has also previously backed calls for a criminal investigation into allegations that Cele received R500,000 from Matlala.
Cele has consistently denied receiving the money.
ECNewsLive will continue to follow developments as authorities decide what action, if any, will be taken against the former police minister.
ECNewsLive | Beyond News
