By Marcus Moloko
Forensics investigator and crime expert Calvin Rafadi has resigned from his position as a research associate at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) following damning allegations presented before the Madlanga Commission.
The commission, established to probe corruption and political interference within law enforcement, heard testimony implicating Rafadi in a network of alleged collusion involving high-profile figures in policing and politics.
UJ spokesperson Herman Esterhuizen has since confirmed Rafadi’s resignation.
At the centre of the allegations are WhatsApp messages retrieved from the seized cellphone of Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, who faces attempted murder charges.
The messages allegedly show Rafadi soliciting financial favours from Matlala.
A protected witness, identified only as Witness X, testified that Rafadi’s requests were frequent and often coincided with favourable media coverage of Matlala.
On 15 January 2025, Rafadi allegedly requested petrol. Later, on 31 January 2025, he asked Matlala if he could use a spare car, texting: “Any spare car I can use? Please.”
Matlala replied: “I had one, but the bank took it. I’m expecting a car next month.”
Further exchanges show Rafadi again requesting petrol on 2 March 2025, and diesel on 7 March 2025, writing: “Please share diesel when you get.”
Chats from Matlala’s phone also reveal communication with influential figures, including North West businessman Brown Mogotsi, Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department official Julius Mkhwanazi, and Rafadi himself.
Inside Politics earlier reported that the alleged “Big Five Cartel” suggested a coordinated network of senior police officials, politicians, and business figures accused of manipulating investigations and maintaining control over lucrative state contracts.
In his testimony before the commission, Crime Intelligence boss Lieutenant General Dumisani Khumalo produced WhatsApp conversations extracted from Matlala’s device, allegedly showing communication with Major General Lesetja Senona, Mkhwanazi, and businessman Sulieman Kareem.
One of the most explosive claims came from Khumalo’s testimony, alleging that Mogotsi was involved in funding activities for the Minister of Police and the ANC.
“He appears to have been involved in funding activities for the Minister of Police within the ANC,” Khumalo said.
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