The National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, says he is innocent of the allegations against him.
Masemola said that he did nothing against the law when the tender of millions of dollars was awarded to the company of a businessman facing a series of cases, Mr. Vusumuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala.
He said this when he appeared at the Magistrate’s Court in Pretoria, yesterday.
Masemola was charged with violating the Public Finance Management Act.
Matlala’s company was awarded a R360 million tender, but the tender was withdrawn after allegations of non-compliance.
Masemola said he did not know the charge against him.
“I know that I am innocent. I have done nothing against the law. I will let the court do its job. I should not be chasing criminals but I am here today charged with violating the terms of use of money.”
It is not clear about Masemola’s future in the police force as some want him to be suspended and an investigation will begin as to whether he should continue to hold the position.
President Cyril Ramaphosa revealed that he will decide soon on Masemola’s issue.
Masemola told the media that they had discussed the matter with Ramaphosa.
“I will not go and give the country the things I discuss with the president. I will wait for the end of the negotiations.”
Masemola appealed to the police to continue their work, not to be disturbed by his arrest.
“The police should continue to do their job. They should continue to work hard. I may be arrested right now, but they should continue their work. We are finding many things as we investigate organized crimes. We are on the heels of people involved in crime. We now know who is doing organized crime.”
The case against Masemola has been postponed to May 13.
Masemola’s case is combined with another one against police officers who have been charged with crimes related to the same tender.
Masemola will appear with the police when he returns to court.
12 police officers, accused of participating in the case, are facing charges including fraud, money laundering and violation of currency laws.
Police officers were previously granted bail of between R40 000 and R80 000 respectively.
Matlala has also been charged with a case affecting the tender, he will appear with police officers when the case returns to court.