National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola faces charges in a widening corruption investigation into a R360-million SAPS health services tender. Authorities served him with a warrant on Wednesday to secure his appearance in court on 21 April.

The move follows the arrest of 12 senior SAPS officers by the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) on Tuesday. The case centres on the awarding of the contract to a company owned by businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.

Fannie Masemola Faces Charges in Major Tender Probe

Fannie Masemola faces charges linked to the tainted tender for health risk management services in the Tshwane District. The contract, valued at R360 million, went to Medicare24 Tshwane District, a company controlled by Matlala.

IDAC investigators allege serious procurement irregularities. Multiple sources confirm that Masemola received the warrant today, while the 12 officers appeared in connection with the same matter. The National Prosecuting Authority describes the operation as part of a broader crackdown on corruption within the police service.

Background and Timeline of the Scandal

The SAPS awarded the tender in 2024. An internal audit later uncovered red flags, including procurement irregularities and poor performance, prompting Masemola himself to cancel the contract.

The IDAC then intensified its probe. On 24 March 2026, officers arrested 12 senior SAPS members and a company director on charges that include fraud, corruption, money laundering and contraventions of the Public Finance Management Act. The arrests mark a significant escalation in what authorities call one of the largest corruption cases involving police leadership in recent years.

Next Steps and Ongoing Investigation

The case remains active. Masemola’s court appearance is set for 21 April 2026, while the arrested officers face further proceedings in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court.

This development comes amid heightened scrutiny of SAPS procurement processes. No official comment from Masemola or his legal team was available at the time of publication. The NPA has indicated that investigators continue to pursue additional leads.