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Former police minister Bheki Cele has recently been cleared by Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka of accusations that he misused a South African Police Service (SAPS) helicopter to attend the African National Congress’s (ANC) 2024 election manifesto launch in Durban. The Democratic Alliance (DA) had complained after Cele was seen arriving at Moses Mabhida Stadium in a SAPS helicopter, alleging that he used it as a personal means of transport to a political event. The Public Protector found Cele’s use of the helicopter lawful, stating that it was in line with his constitutional responsibilities relating to police oversight and security operations during the event[1][5].

However, Cele is now implicated in a growing police corruption scandal involving controversial businessman Vusumuzi “Cat” Matlala. Only days before Matlala’s company was awarded a R360 million SAPS health services tender, Cele reportedly stayed in a luxury penthouse suite owned by Matlala in Pretoria’s Capital Menlyn Maine hotel. The stay was not logged through official SAPS or government channels, and there is no record of state funds being used. This timing has raised concerns about possible conflicts of interest and undue influence over the awarding of the lucrative contract. Matlala is facing attempted murder charges and has been linked to several corruption investigations shaking South Africa’s police leadership[2][3][4].

In response to explosive allegations by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi—who linked both Cele and current Police Minister Senzo Mchunu to Matlala—both politicians are now expected to appear before the ANC’s integrity commission. Mkhwanazi also accused Mchunu of disbanding the team investigating political killings in the province. Both Cele and Mchunu deny any wrongdoing, but the party has emphasized the importance of safeguarding the integrity of the country’s security institutions[4][6][7].

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