Police Chief Summoned Over Health Contract Investigation
The head of South Africa's police force, General Fannie Masemola, has been summoned to appear in court in relation to a health contract currently under criminal investigation.
A police spokesperson confirmed that General Masemola "was served with a notice to appear in court" on 21 April concerning his alleged involvement in the awarding of a controversial $21 million (£15.5 million) tender.
Authorities have not disclosed the specific charges that Masemola will face.
At 62 years old, Masemola is the third police commissioner to be subject to a criminal investigation while holding office. There has been no announcement regarding his suspension. President Cyril Ramaphosa stated he "will be addressing the matter… in accordance with the law".
Details of the Controversial Tender
The tender in question was awarded in 2024 to Medicare24 Tshwane District, a company owned by businessman Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala, who has been a controversial figure. The contract was intended to provide health services to police personnel.
Following allegations of corruption related to the contract's awarding, a dozen senior police officers have been formally charged for their involvement in the deal, which has since been cancelled.
These officers are accused of colluding with Matlala, who has also been charged. All face corruption and fraud charges but have not yet been required to enter pleas.
In addition to these charges, Matlala faces an attempted murder charge, which he denies.
Inquiry and Background
The allegations concerning how Matlala secured the contract emerged during an inquiry established by President Ramaphosa to investigate corruption within the police force.
The Madlanga Commission was formed after a senior police officer alleged that criminal gangs had infiltrated government structures, an accusation that led to the dismissal of the country's police minister.
Official Responses
Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe stated that the national commissioner "has taken note of the charges brought against him and he has pledged his full cooperation with all lawful processes".
South Africa's National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed that Masemola was served with the summons on Wednesday morning.
NPA spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said,
"We cannot divulge the charges until they are presented to him."
President Ramaphosa acknowledged the developments concerning Masemola and the 12 senior officers charged over the contract.
His spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, stated that the president, "working together with the minister of police, is committed to ensuring that the [force] remains stable and able to continue fulfilling its policing mandate".
Historical Context of Police Chiefs Facing Charges
Jackie Selebi was the first police chief charged while in office. He was South Africa's longest-serving police commissioner and in 2010 was sentenced to 15 years in prison after being convicted of accepting bribes from Italian drug lord Glen Agliotti in exchange for overlooking his criminal activities.
Khomotso Phahlane was charged with corruption in 2017. Those charges were withdrawn in 2018, but he was arrested again on similar charges in 2019, which he denies. His case remains ongoing in court.
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