Mapaballo Borotho
- Vusi “Cat” Matlala and Katiso Molefe have been linked to a powerful drug cartel known as the Big 5, which has infiltrated Gauteng’s political landscape.
- The revelation came from suspended Crime Intelligence head General Dumisane Khumalo during testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
- Both men are already in custody for separate crimes as investigations into the cartel’s broader operations continue.
Controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and alleged murderer Katiso Molefe have been identified as key figures in a powerful drug cartel known as the “Big 5”, which has reportedly penetrated Gauteng’s political sphere.
This revelation was made by suspended Crime Intelligence head General Dumisane Khumalo during testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, which is probing allegations of political interference and criminal networks within the judiciary and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Khumalo described the Big 5 as a sophisticated criminal organisation consisting of five main individuals with deep influence across various illicit activities.
“Among these cartels there is one known as the Big 5, identified as highly sophisticated, with widespread influence and involvement in a broad spectrum of illegal activities. Its structure and leadership are believed to be headquartered in Gauteng for obvious reasons, the country’s economic powerhouse,” Khumalo said.
He confirmed that Matlala and Molefe have already been linked to the cartel, while investigations into the remaining three individuals are ongoing.
“From the identification of the Big 5, progress has been made. Those mentioned and reflected in their proxies or positions, namely Katiso Molefe and Vusi Matlala, have already been addressed, while the other three are still under investigation,” he told the inquiry.
The Madlanga Commission was established by President Cyril Ramaphosa following explosive claims by KZN Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi of political interference in police operations, implicating suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.
Mchunu previously disbanded the Political Killings Task Team, despite its success in tackling politically motivated crimes. The inquiry is investigating whether Mchunu’s decision was lawful.
Both Matlala and Molefe are currently behind bars for unrelated charges: Molefe is accused of orchestrating the murder of DJ Sumbody, while Matlala allegedly ordered a hit on his ex-girlfriend, media personality Tebogo Thobejane.
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