The Madlanga Commission heard WhatsApp evidence involving Vusimuzi Matlala and Mike van Wyk.
Image: Oupa Mokoena / Independent Newspapers
The Madlanga Commission on Monday saw evidence from WhatsApp chats between alleged underworld tycoon Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and his associate, Mike van Wyk, including discussions about senior police leadership and suspected drug transactions.
The messages, presented by chief evidence leader Matthew Chaskalson, have intensified scrutiny over the relationship between the two men and their alleged activities.
Among the most striking exchanges was a message in which Matlala appeared to express confidence about influence within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
“My person is going to be a national commissioner,” Matlala allegedly told Van Wyk during a discussion about a report concerning an alleged police rogue unit.
The commission heard that Van Wyk appeared concerned that developments surrounding the report could interfere with plans being discussed between the pair.
Further evidence presented before the commission focused on messages and videos allegedly exchanged between Matlala and Van Wyk involving cash and suspected narcotics.
A video shown during proceedings allegedly depicts five white bricks being weighed.
According to evidence leaders, the footage was sent by Matlala to Van Wyk through WhatsApp.
After receiving the video, Van Wyk allegedly requested pricing information for the substance shown in the footage.
Chaskalson told the commission that investigators had concluded the bricks were cocaine.
He also referred to a message from a third party discussing prices, including a reference to a product described as “100% pure”.
The commission heard that Van Wyk, in an affidavit, denied involvement and suggested the video may have been planted on his phone.
However, Chaskalson rejected that explanation, stating that investigators found no technical basis for the claim and concluded that the video formed part of the original WhatsApp conversation.
Van Wyk was expected to testify before the commission on Monday but did not appear due to ill health.
The commission has elected to continue hearing evidence in his absence and has indicated that he will be allowed to respond to the allegations by July 6.
The inquiry is ongoing.
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