Resignation from UJ not an admission of guilt: Rafadi

October 21, 2025 69

Private investigator and crime expert, Calvin Rafadi, says his resignation from the University of Johannesburg (UJ) should not be seen as an admission of guilt.

Rafadi, who recently stepped down as a research associate at the institution, has been implicated in proceedings before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.

Witness X, whose identity was withheld due to safety concerns, told the commission that Rafadi allegedly sought favours from attempted murder accused, Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala.

These requests, reportedly made via WhatsApp, included petrol money, car repairs, e-hailing transport, and financial assistance for his PhD studies.

Witness X further claimed that the nature of these favours suggested Rafadi was performing a media and propaganda role on behalf of Matlala.

Rafadi, known for his work in criminal investigations, maintains that his resignation was a voluntary decision and not linked to the allegations.

“Rather, it is a principled decision based on my respect for the academic community and the reputation of the University of Johannesburg.”

He adds that the revelations at the Madlanga Commission have compromised his safety and professional integrity.

“Prior to my name being disclosed, I had made efforts to caution certain officials against doing so, as I have been involved in a covert operation within the Kidnapping Task Team.

“Despite this, my identity was disclosed publicly without any verification of my role, as clearly recorded in the investigation diary notes,” he added.

Calvin Rafadi with all these qualifications still no rent or petrol money 😭😭#MadlangaCommission pic.twitter.com/id5e1Or7C1

— Lonwabo Mswati (@ltunyiswa) October 20, 2025

#MadlangaCommission [WITNESS X TESTIMONY] The analysis demonstrate that payments and favours to Mr Calvin Ratlhogo Rafadi were tied to performing a media and propaganda function for Mr Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala.

• On 3 January 2025 – Mr Rafadi shares a social media post about… pic.twitter.com/R1xDWS6o00

— Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (@CrimeWatch_RSA) October 15, 2025

Calvin Rafadi is a ‘ South African forensic expert’ and crime analyst who has gained public recognition through his commentary on crime-related issues and involvement in a public inquiry regarding police corruption. He was evidently doing the bidding for Matlala.

He reminds me… https://t.co/YGDA7jbF8O

— Engineer Matšhela Koko, MBL (@koko_matshela) October 14, 2025

If you thought that Brown Mogotsi had a lot of requests, enters Calvin Rafadi.

He was constantly asking Matlala money petrol, diesel, Uber rides, tuition fees, car repairs and even trying to borrow cars.

Cat was very patient with this chap. pic.twitter.com/E13YQ6mJ2J

— Sentletse 🇿🇦🇷🇺🇵🇸🇱🇧 (@Sentletse) October 14, 2025