He Is Like a Jukebox’: Matlala Claims Bheki Cele Demanded a R6 Million KZN House
Controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala has made explosive new claims against former Police Minister Bheki Cele, likening the former minister to a “jukebox” that only speaks when fed money, and alleging that Cele asked him to purchase a R6 million property in KwaZulu-Natal.
The allegations surfaced during Matlala’s ongoing testimony before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, which is investigating allegations of corruption, political interference, and criminal syndicate infiltration within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
According to Matlala, Cele requested that he buy him a seaside house valued at R6 million in Trafalgar, located on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast.
During questioning at the commission, Matlala suggested that the property request was tied to Cele’s offer to facilitate a connection with KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi—a meeting Matlala believed could help resolve disputes surrounding a lucrative R360 million SAPS health risk management contract.
Describing Cele’s alleged appetite for financial favors, Matlala remarked that the former minister operates “like a jukebox,” implying that money had to be put in before Cele would speak or act on his behalf.
The R6 million property claim adds to a growing list of financial allegations Matlala has leveled against Cele across both the Madlanga Commission and Parliament’s ad hoc committee. Matlala has previously testified that he handed Cele R500,000 in cash across two separate installments—R300,000 at his Pretoria penthouse and R200,000 at Durban’s Beverly Hills Hotel—as “facilitation” and appreciation fees.
However, Matlala’s testimony has also been marked by controversy regarding the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC).
He recently told the commission that IDAC investigators pressured him to exaggerate details and fabricate a longer history of his relationship with Cele in an unsigned Section 204 plea statement.
Cele has consistently denied receiving any cash bribes or improper financial gratification from Matlala, maintaining that his interactions with the businessman were limited to gathering intelligence and accepting a free stay at Matlala’s Pretoria apartment.
The former minister has indicated his willingness to testify before the commission to refute the claims head-on.
The Madlanga Commission continues to hear evidence, and Matlala’s claims remain untested allegations pending further cross-examination and findings by the inquiry.
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