Was the EMPD letter authorizing Matlala’s security firm forged?

Johannesburg – Julius Mkhwanazi, the suspended acting head of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD), has claimed that a 2021 letter of authority used by tender magnate Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala was forged.

The letter in question purported to confirm that Matlala’s private security firm, Cat VIP Protection, maintained an “endless working relationship” with the EMPD. It also listed the registration details of seven vehicles owned by Matlala, suggesting they were deployed in support of the metro police.

However, during testimony at the ongoing Madlanga Commission on Wednesday, Mkhwanazi denied signing the document, asserting that his signature had been falsified.

“I’m contesting it — this is not my signature. My signature has a big J and the D, this one? No. And I got this on social media,” Mkhwanazi told the commission.

While Mkhwanazi admitted to signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between two of Matlala’s companies, he said the letter of authority that Matlala used to avoid scrutiny by law enforcement was not authorised by the EMPD. Both the MOU and the disputed letter are dated October 2021.

Mkhwanazi explained that although he had agreed to the MOUs with Matlala’s businesses, the agreements were never formally approved by the EMPD. He stressed that the alleged letter of authority circulated publicly did not have his endorsement and was not a legitimate EMPD document.

The case has raised questions about oversight and due diligence within the EMPD when it comes to private security partnerships. The letter purportedly facilitated Matlala’s security operations and implied a level of official collaboration that Mkhwanazi now disputes.

The Madlanga Commission, which is investigating allegations of corruption and misconduct in state institutions, has previously examined other documents and agreements linked to Matlala’s operations. Mkhwanazi’s testimony adds another layer of complexity, particularly regarding the authenticity of official communications between the EMPD and private security companies.

Legal experts observing the hearings noted that claims of forged documents in the context of high-profile security tenders can have significant ramifications, both for the individuals involved and for public trust in law enforcement agencies.

The commission continues to receive testimony from various officials, including suspended EMPD deputy chiefs and other stakeholders connected to Matlala’s contracts. The investigation also covers issues such as payments made to officials, vehicle authorisations, and procedural compliance in private security agreements.

As of Wednesday, there has been no formal response from Cat VIP Protection regarding the alleged forgery or Mkhwanazi’s claims. Authorities have yet to confirm whether any legal action will be pursued against those responsible for issuing the disputed letter.

FAQ

Q1: Who is Julius Mkhwanazi?
A1: Julius Mkhwanazi is the suspended acting head of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD).

Q2: What is the disputed letter of authority?
A2: The letter allegedly claimed that Cat VIP Protection had an ongoing working relationship with the EMPD and listed vehicles used to assist the metro police.

Q3: Did Mkhwanazi sign the letter?
A3: Mkhwanazi denies signing the letter, claiming his signature was forged.

Q4: Did he sign any agreements with Matlala’s companies?
A4: Yes, he signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between two of Matlala’s companies, but it was never officially approved by the EMPD.

Q5: What is the Madlanga Commission?
A5: The Madlanga Commission is an inquiry investigating allegations of corruption, mismanagement, and misconduct in state institutions, including security contracts.