Major-General Richard Shibiri, who was tasked with leading organized crime investigations within the police detective and forensic division, accepted a loan of R80,000 from alleged tender kingpin and organized crime accused Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala.
On Wednesday, March 4, SAPS organized crime chief Major-General Richard Shibiri appeared before the Madlanga Commission to answer allegations that he accepted a “gift” of R80,000 from controversial businessman and organized crime accused Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala – and that he interfered with a murder investigation.
Matlala, who faces attempted murder charges and previously received a police tender worth R360 million, is a central figure in the Madlanga Commission investigation into alleged political interference and corruption within the criminal justice system due to his alleged ties to senior police officers, including the marginalized police minister. Senzo Mchunu.
Shibiri, who was not cross-examined on Wednesday and was allowed to clarify his 81-page statement, admitted receiving R80,000 from Matlala, but said it was a loan which he repaid.
What should I follow WhatsApp | Linkedin for latest headlines
it was a camp Suspended In February 2025, along with several police officers.
'Personal misfortune'
Shibiri's timeline attempted to present the R80,000 transaction as a series of personal misfortunes rather than impropriety. He discovered it on September 6, 2024, when his son was involved in a car accident and the insurance claim was denied, leaving him under unexpected financial stress.
Then, on 14 September 2024, Shibiri attended the engagement party of now suspended Deputy National Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya…