Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala’s vehicle scandal sparks outrage as official reveals how state loophole was exploited

Former metro official lifts lid on Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala’s alleged car registration scam

Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s testimony at the Madlanga Commission has exposed explosive claims about Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, alleging that some of his luxury vehicles were illegally registered as state property.

The revelations have raised serious questions about corruption, interference, and how Matlala managed to operate unchecked for so long.

In an interview with eNCA, former Ekurhuleni Metro official Xolani Nciza confirmed the allegations, explaining how the scam was orchestrated.

“The investigation indeed revealed that there was some malfeasance that had happened. That was orchestrated through an alleged donation that Cat Matalala’s company had made to the municipality,” Nciza said.

He clarified that no donation ever materialised, but a forged letter was created, allowing vehicles like a BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, BMW 3 Series, and VW Golf GTI to be registered under the municipality before being transferred to CAT VIP Protection.

Nciza further alleged that efforts to charge the then Director of Specialised Services, Major-General Julius Mkhwanazi, were blocked.

Despite the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) finding wrongdoing, senior officials reportedly stopped the process, ensuring Mkhwanazi faced no consequences.

Nciza described the ordeal as evidence of “the capture of the municipality” and stressed that he is willing to provide proof before the commission.

The scandal has since sparked heated debate, with South Africans demanding answers about Matlala’s influence and the ease with which he allegedly manipulated the system.