“I don’t know Cat Matlala,” says Mashatile

Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, maintains that he does not know alleged crime kingpin, Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.

Mashatile made the remarks while fielding questions from journalists on the sidelines of the Gauteng Investment Conference today.

The deputy president came under scrutiny after being implicated by suspended police sergeant, Fannie Nkosi, during his testimony before the Madlanga Commission.

The claim came after Nkosi’s home was raided by police, who were allegedly searching for Matlala’s credit card.

Following the raid, Nkosi submitted a written statement claiming Matlala wanted the credit card returned before allegedly meeting with Mashatile and embattled Deputy National Police Commissioner, Shadrack Sibiya.

Mashatile says he was not even in the country on the day Nkosi claims the meeting took place.

“In fact, when I heard about the plans to meet with me on the 23rd of December, I was not even in the country,” he said. “So I don’t know what Fannie is talking about.”

Mashatile has previously stated that he is prepared to fully cooperate with the Madlanga Commission should it require any clarity or assistance from him.

Speaking at the conference, Mashatile also highlighted the importance of tackling crime in Gauteng.

“I think the premier spoke about it. When the premier started with the patrollers, and so on, people were criticising him and saying, no, it’s not his role, but he was making a point that it’s important that we keep this province safe and basically assist and partner with the police to fight crime.”