National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola says he will comply with a court process compelling his appearance over a controversial R360 million SAPS health services tender.
Masemola confirmed he was served with a warrant on Wednesday and is expected to appear in court on April 21.
The dramatic move follows a sweeping crackdown by the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), which has already arrested 12 police officers linked to the deal.
The officers were granted bail.
At the centre of the controversy is a contract awarded to Medicare24, a company owned by Vusimuzi Matlala, who faces serious criminal allegations and is described by authorities as an alleged cartel figure.
The tender was intended to provide healthcare services to thousands of police officers.
Speaking in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) over the weekend, Masemola struck a defensive tone, insisting he had not been charged and had committed no wrongdoing.
“As far as you ask me if I’ve done anything wrong. No, I did not,” he said. “I cancelled the contract and followed due process.”
The contract was terminated after audits flagged irregularities, poor performance, and potential unlawful procurement—findings that triggered the ongoing investigation.
Masemola’s remarks came during an official event confirming the five-year contract renewal of KZN police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, backed by Premier Thami Ntuli.
Despite the mounting pressure, Masemola said the legal battle would not derail policing priorities.
“We will not abandon the fight against organised crime,” he said.
He added that his future now rests with President Cyril Ramaphosa, confirming ongoing engagements as the case unfolds.
kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za
IOL Politics
