SAPS Commissioner Masemola Faces Charges in R360m Tender Scandal

Police say National Commissioner Fannie Masemola is cooperating after being linked to the irregular awarding of a multi-million-rand tender to Medicare24. This scandal affects South African Police Service (SAPS) officials and public trust in the police. It matters now because Masemola is the most senior official charged, following the arrest of 16 others.

The investigation started in 2024. On Wednesday, 16 police officials appeared in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court. A judge granted them bail between R40,000 and R80,000.

Masemola had earlier distanced himself from any wrongdoing. Now he faces charges as the highest-ranking official in the case.

Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said:

General Fannie Masemola remains committed to upholding the rule of law and the integrity of the office he serves. He has taken note of the charges against him and has pledged full cooperation with all lawful process that seeks to address wrongdoing. This is the right necessary course to ensure we restore public confidence into our institution.

Medicare24 is owned by Vusumuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala, a controversial businessman. A parliamentary ad hoc committee has heard details on how SAPS awarded a R360m tender to his company.

Police Minister Senzo Mchunu ordered SAPS to probe the contract. Masemola told an inquiry about it. He also said the disbandment of the PKTT unit aimed to stop cartel probes in Gauteng.

Related background includes:

• Parliament’s ad hoc committee on corruption in the criminal justice system.
• Mchunu’s directive for the SAPS probe.
• Masemola’s statements on distancing himself from the tender.

These points connect the tender issues to wider police probes.

The case hits public confidence in SAPS. Masemola’s pledge to cooperate is a step police say will help restore integrity.

Spokesperson Mathe tied this to efforts for public trust, based on official statements.

Masemola will fully cooperate with lawful processes. Court proceedings continue after the arrests.

Police have assured this based on their statements.