The head of South Africa's police force has been summoned to appear in court in connection with a health contract that is the subject of a criminal investigation. General Fannie Masemola 'was served with a notice to appear in court' on 21 April over his alleged role in the awarding of a controversial $21m (£15.5m) tender, as confirmed by a police spokesperson. Authorities, however, have declined to disclose the specific charges against Masemola.
Masemola, aged 62, is the third police commissioner to face a criminal inquiry while in office. President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged the situation but has not indicated any move towards Masemola's suspension, mentioning he 'will be addressing the matter… in accordance with the law.' The tender was granted to the company Medicare24 Tshwane District, owned by businessman Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala, in 2024, intended to provide health services to the police. Following accusations of corruption, several high-ranking officials have been charged related to the contract, which has been subsequently cancelled.
Brig Athlenda Mathe, a police spokesperson, stated that Masemola 'has taken note of the charges brought against him and he has pledged his full cooperation with all lawful processes.' The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) verified that Masemola received the summons recently but did not release the charges prior to their official presentation. Ramaphosa has expressed concern regarding the actions of his police chief and the charged officers, emphasizing a commitment to maintaining stability within the police force, which is crucial for upholding its policing mandate.
This marks a serious challenge for the South African police leadership as past police chiefs, such as Jackie Selebi and Khomotso Phahlane, faced similar legal troubles linked to corruption allegations, emphasizing ongoing issues within the police force.
Masemola, aged 62, is the third police commissioner to face a criminal inquiry while in office. President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged the situation but has not indicated any move towards Masemola's suspension, mentioning he 'will be addressing the matter… in accordance with the law.' The tender was granted to the company Medicare24 Tshwane District, owned by businessman Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala, in 2024, intended to provide health services to the police. Following accusations of corruption, several high-ranking officials have been charged related to the contract, which has been subsequently cancelled.
Brig Athlenda Mathe, a police spokesperson, stated that Masemola 'has taken note of the charges brought against him and he has pledged his full cooperation with all lawful processes.' The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) verified that Masemola received the summons recently but did not release the charges prior to their official presentation. Ramaphosa has expressed concern regarding the actions of his police chief and the charged officers, emphasizing a commitment to maintaining stability within the police force, which is crucial for upholding its policing mandate.
This marks a serious challenge for the South African police leadership as past police chiefs, such as Jackie Selebi and Khomotso Phahlane, faced similar legal troubles linked to corruption allegations, emphasizing ongoing issues within the police force.
