Suspended deputy national police commissioner Shadrack Sibiya has alleged that General Hilda Senthumule, a senior police official, received financial support from Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, who is suspected of being involved in criminal activities. According to Sibiya, Matlala paid for Senthumule to undergo a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) surgery, and this payment was not reported to the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Sibiya made these claims while speaking before the Madlanga Commission. He stated that Senthumule’s association with Matlala was not properly disclosed, raising concerns about a possible conflict of interest within police leadership. He also described evidence provided to the commission, saying that Senthumule had to spend three months unable to sit after the surgical procedure and was seen lying down in a car due to her recovery.
The matter was brought up by other members of the police force, with questions reportedly asked about the details of the surgery and who had financed it. While rumors had circulated regarding Matlala’s involvement, SAPS Brigadier Rachel Matjeng, who was also mentioned in connection with such procedures, denied receiving any benefit from Matlala herself. Instead, she confirmed the allegations were focused on another officer.
In addition to the surgery, Sibiya told the Commission that Senthumule had accepted ten refrigerators from Medicare2024, a company connected to Matlala, but these gifts were not officially declared. This raised further questions about transparency within the SAPS when it comes to receiving benefits from external parties.
Sibiya concluded his reading from a lengthy document with further discussions expected to continue before the Madlanga Commission. The claims have sparked debate over the conduct of senior police officials and the need for ongoing investigations into undisclosed financial relationships and potential conflicts of interest inside the police force.
