Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala, an alleged cartel leader and Johannesburg businessman, recently appeared before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee, where he provided testimony regarding his alleged involvement in a high-ranking criminal syndicate. Matlala, who is currently in custody facing charges of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering, has made several startling claims during his appearances.

One of the most significant revelations from Matlala's testimony concerned former Minister of Police Bheki Cele. On Thursday, 27 November, Matlala claimed that Cele had demanded a R1 million bribe in exchange for assistance in criminal activity. Matlala testified that he could only afford R500,000, which he paid in two installments of R200,000 and R300,000. He specifically stated that he placed the stacks of cash into a Woolworths shopping bag before handing it to Cele in his red Jeep at the Beverly Hills hotel. Matlala further alleged that Cele would frequently stay at his Menlyn mansion for extended periods. In response, Bheki Cele had previously denied befriending or receiving cash from Matlala.

The mention of the Woolworths bag caught the attention of the retailer, which humorously responded on its X account. Woolworths poked fun at the allegations, tweeting, “Secures the groceries. A makeshift overnight bag. The national carrier. The multi-talented. Ladies and gentlemen… The right way to use the W bag,” much to the amusement of social media users.

During the proceedings, Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana defender Grant Kekana's name also surfaced. Crossby Vusi Shongwe of the uMkhonto we Sizwe [MK Party] questioned Matlala about a connection between his sister, Claudette Masethe, and Kekana. Matlala confirmed that his sister and Grant Kekana were romantically involved and had been dating, clarifying they were not married. He referred to Kekana as “the boy who plays football for Mamelodi Sundowns.” Shongwe also inquired if Matlala had met Grant Kekana's mother, former deputy minister of communications Pinky Kekana, through the footballer. Matlala denied ever meeting the former deputy minister. Notably, Grant Kekana, an experienced defender, has made only nine appearances for Mamelodi Sundowns this season, with injuries limiting him to just four league appearances.

Matlala also faced a heated confrontation with a committee member identified as