Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has confirmed that National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola has been formally charged under the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), though not with corruption.
The charges relate to procurement processes, specifically the standards expected of an accounting officer in managing public funds and tender decisions. Cachalia emphasised that while Masemola does not face corruption charges, the allegations remain serious.
Cachalia is expected to meet with President Cyril Ramaphosa to determine the appropriate response, as scrutiny intensifies over leadership within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Masemola remains in his position as national commissioner pending the president’s decision. Authorities have indicated that any action taken will follow due legal process.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has confirmed that Masemola has been served with a summons to appear in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on 21 April in connection with a controversial R360 million procurement tender.
SAPS has also confirmed that the summons relates to the Medicare24 Tshwane contract. Officials say Masemola will cooperate fully with the legal process and remains committed to upholding the rule of law.
The case forms part of a broader investigation that has already seen 12 senior police officers arrested on charges including fraud, money laundering and violations of the PFMA. Those implicated include Brigadier Rachel Matjeng, General Busi Temba, Brigadier Kistey Jonker and Brigadier Ofentse Tlhoaele.
In a related development, former senior officer Brigadier Petunia Lenono has also been arrested. Her resignation shortly before the awarding of the tender has raised further questions.
At the centre of the investigation is businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, whose alleged links to the multimillion rand contract have triggered a wide ranging probe into procurement irregularities within SAPS.
The Presidency has reiterated its commitment to ensuring stability within the police service while allowing legal processes to unfold.
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