Mkhwanazi says influence of alleged underworld boss Matlala in law enforcement agencies should not be downplayed

KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi says the influence of alleged underworld boss Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala within law enforcement agencies should never be downplayed.

Appearing before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry on Thursday, Mkhwanazi has testified that some of Matlala's personal vehicles were registered and serviced by the City of Ekurhuleni.

This was first revealed by Eyewitness News last year, when it reported that Matlala's cars were equipped with blue lights illegally supplied by Ekurhuleni's police chief, Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi.

READ: TIMELINE: Controversial businessman Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala in court

This was detailed in a classified report by police watchdog, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), which EWN is in possession of.

Mkhwanazi has told the commission that Matlala deliberately sought to embed himself within law enforcement agencies.

"Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala is one fellow that has been enjoying too much privilege from law enforcement and the typical example is that four or five of his personal vehicles were registered by the deputy chief of police in Ekurhuleni, Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi."

Mkhwanazi says Matlala has a long history of infiltrating law enforcement agencies.

"The vehicles, when you test them on the system, reflect as if they belong to the municipality. He took these vehicles, and he caused the municipality to take municipal blue lights, and he fitted them on these vehicles."

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