Shibiri maintains no wrongdoing, despite evidence of Matlala relationship

By Johnathan Paoli

Suspended SAPS Organised Crime head Major-General Richard Shibiri spent a dramatic week before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, forcefully rejecting allegations that he interfered in criminal investigations while accusing rival police factions of orchestrating a campaign to destroy his reputation.

Over days of testimony and cross-examination, Shibiri portrayed himself as a veteran officer caught in the middle of internal battles within the SAPS, insisting that claims linking him to organised crime networks were false.

“I have never interfered in any investigation, and I have never protected criminals. My conscience is clear,” Shibiri told the commission.

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A central focus of the hearings was Shibiri’s relationship with controversial businessman Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala, who has been repeatedly linked to underworld networks.

Shibiri confirmed that Matlala had loaned him R70,000, saying the money was used to repair his son’s damaged