Brigadier Rachel Matjeng: 10 things to know about police boss linked to Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala

Brigadier Rachel Matjeng has come under intense public and institutional scrutiny following her testimony before the Madlanga Commission, where she revealed details of her past romantic relationship with alleged cartel kingpin Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. Her appearance before the commission has raised broader questions about ethics, oversight, and personal relationships within South Africa’s police leadership. Here are 10 key things to know about Brigadier Matjeng and why her testimony matters.

1. She Is a Senior Officer in the Police Service

Rachel Matjeng holds the rank of brigadier, a senior position within the police hierarchy. Officers at this level are typically entrusted with significant responsibility, including oversight of operations, resources, and decision-making processes.

2. She Testified Before the Madlanga Commission

Matjeng appeared before the Madlanga Commission, which is investigating governance failures, corruption risks, and systemic weaknesses within the police service. Her testimony became one of the most talked-about sessions of the inquiry.

3. She Confirmed a Romantic Relationship With Vusimuzi Matlala

During her testimony, Matjeng disclosed that she had been in an on-and-off romantic relationship with Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, a man now accused of leading a criminal cartel. She said the relationship began in 2017.

4. She Says the Relationship Was Personal, Not Professional

Matjeng strongly denied that her relationship with Matlala influenced her professional conduct. According to her, he never requested favors, inside information, or assistance that could compromise her role as a police officer.

5. She Claims a Superior Knew About Tender Links

One of the more serious claims in her testimony was that a superior officer was aware she was working with a tender connected to Matlala. She suggested that management failed to act on potential conflict-of-interest concerns.

6. She Described Matlala as “Humble and Romantic”

Despite the allegations now facing Matlala, Matjeng told the commission that she never experienced what she described as an “evil side” during their relationship. She portrayed him as respectful, soft-spoken, and romantic.

7. She Admitted Receiving Gifts and Money

Matjeng acknowledged that Matlala financially supported her during their relationship. This included gifts and direct deposits into her bank account, a disclosure that raised concerns during questioning by commissioners.

8. She Did Not Personally Check His Criminal Record

When asked whether she had verified Matlala’s criminal background, Matjeng admitted she did not conduct a formal check herself. Instead, she relied on two individuals to make inquiries on her behalf, with only partial feedback received.

9. Her Awareness of Alleged Crimes Came Later

Matjeng conceded that she became aware of Matlala’s alleged criminal activities only after public allegations surfaced and closer to the time of his arrest. She said this information was not known to her at the start of their relationship.

10. Her Testimony Highlights Broader Policing Concerns

Beyond her personal story, Matjeng’s evidence has become symbolic of deeper issues within law enforcement, including weak oversight, blurred personal-professional boundaries, and the need for stronger ethical safeguards for senior officers.