MADLANGA COMMISSION: Madlanga Commission reveals cocaine video ‘linking’ Matlala and Van Wyk to drug dealings

A Durban Metro Police officer has been suspended following his arrest on corruption charges related to allegedly selling jobs in exchange for bribes. The incident came to light when the officer was apprehended at the department’s headquarters last Wednesday, sparking an ongoing investigation by the South African Police Service (SAPS). The officer made an appearance in the Durban Magistrate’s Court on Friday, June 12, 2026, and was released on bail pending further legal proceedings. The Metro Police Service has confirmed that the officer has been suspended immediately while the criminal and internal disciplinary processes unfold.

Colonel Boysie Zungu, a spokesperson for the Metro Police Service, emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, stating that the department remains committed to integrity, accountability, and transparency. He reiterated that all recruitment and appointment processes adhere strictly to established laws and protocols, and that no one is permitted to solicit or facilitate employment through illicit means. Zungu also warned the public that engaging in such activities constitutes a criminal offense, and that both the person offering the bribe and the one accepting it could face legal consequences.

The incident has drawn criticism from political leaders, who have called for thorough investigations into potential systemic flaws in the recruitment processes of the Metro Police Service. DA eThekwini caucus leader Thabani Mthethwa expressed concern over longstanding allegations of unfairness and political interference in the hiring practices of the metro police. He urged for a forensic review of recruitment procedures dating back at least five years and insisted that those responsible for exploiting vulnerable job seekers should be held accountable under the law.

Similarly, IFP member of the eThekwini Municipality Security and Emergency Committee Roy Mbonambi voiced concerns about the flawed recruitment practices within the Metro Police Service. He criticized the hiring of unqualified individuals while excluding others who met the criteria, and suggested that the department adopt stricter medical assessments to ensure that only suitable candidates are selected. Mbonambi also pointed out that some recruits develop serious health conditions shortly after joining, raising questions about the adequacy of current vetting procedures. He stressed the importance of transparency in all operations to prevent misuse of public funds.

Meanwhile, in another part of the country, a Limpopo police constable faced corruption charges after allegedly demanding a R10,000 bribe from a timber truck owner. The incident occurred on August 1, 2025, when the constable, stationed at Tubatse SAPS, stopped a truck and trailer carrying pine timber. The driver was unable to present a transport permit and contacted the truck owner for assistance. The constable allegedly demanded the bribe in exchange for allowing the vehicle to proceed and detained the driver when the full amount was not paid. After the owner deposited R1,000, the constable reportedly became agitated and demanded the remaining R9,000, leading to the driver’s detention on allegations of possessing stolen property.

The case was initially brought to the attention of the Limpopo Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit, which conducted an investigation and referred the matter to the Director of Public Prosecutions. The constable was formally charged with corruption on June 15, 2026, and received a summons to appear before the Burgersfort Magistrate’s Court on August 24, 2026. Investigations into the case are still ongoing, highlighting the broader issue of corruption within law enforcement agencies across South Africa.

In a separate development, the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry revealed a video that allegedly links Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala and Mike van Wyk to drug dealing. The video, sent by Matlala to van Wyk on April 6, 2025, shows cocaine bricks being weighed on an electronic scale. The footage suggests that both men were involved in cocaine trafficking, with van Wyk allegedly negotiating the price of the drugs. Although van Wyk denies having received the video, the evidence presented at the commission indicates a possible connection between the two individuals and their involvement in organized crime. The commission also explored links between van Wyk and a mining boss associated with the Gupta family, who were implicated in State Capture during former President Jacob Zuma’s tenure.

The Madlanga Commission has also examined the role of Medicare 24 Holdings, a company founded by van Wyk, and its connection to a controversial R228-million policing tender awarded in 2024. This tender has since been canceled, and several senior police officials, including suspended national police commissioner Fannie Masemola, face criminal charges related to the scandal. Van Wyk was scheduled to testify before the commission but was unable to attend due to medical reasons, prompting the commission to proceed with evidence readings instead.

The revelations surrounding the Madlanga Commission have raised questions about the extent of corruption within the security sector and its potential influence on political dynamics. As investigations continue, the outcomes of these cases could significantly impact public perception of law enforcement institutions and their commitment to combating corruption. With multiple high-profile cases emerging simultaneously, the need for comprehensive reforms and increased oversight becomes increasingly apparent.