Durban – Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has dismissed allegations made against him by KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, calling them baseless and lacking due process.
Mkhwanazi, during a media briefing on Sunday, accused Mchunu of meddling in sensitive police investigations and being indirectly linked to underworld figure Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala through an associate named Brown Mogotsi. He alleged that information retrieved from Matlala’s phone pointed to unauthorised communication involving the minister.
Matlala, who was arrested in May for attempted murder, is said to have benefited from a R360 million SAPS contract. 
Responding to the claims, Mchunu issued a statement via social media, stating that he was in Vryheid over the weekend on ANC campaign duties ahead of the 16 July by-elections. He confirmed that he had been engaging with Izinduna, community bodies, and commercial farmers on crime-related issues, including stock theft.
He described Mkhwanazi’s claims as “wild allegations” and expressed concern over what he called an attempt to undermine the integrity of the Police Ministry and the SAPS. Mchunu said the statements made by the provincial commissioner would be reviewed and appropriate action considered.
He called for an urgent and transparent investigation into the allegations, insisting he remains committed to reducing violent crime, illegal firearms, drug syndicates, and gender-based violence, particularly in provinces hardest hit by crime, including KZN.
