Senona admits he encouraged ‘Cat’ Matlala to seek legal advice over SAPS contract

KwaZulu-Natal Hawks Head General Lesetja Senona

KwaZulu-Natal Hawks Head General Lesetja Senona has admitted to the Madlanga Commision that he encouraged Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala to seek legal advice, after the cancellation of his SAPS contract.

Matlala’s R360 million SAPS contract was cancelled last year after it was flagged for irregularities.

Senona, who’s being cross-examined by Advocate Adila Hassim, is being probed about his close relationship with Matlala.

Senona says he never urged him to sue.

“I never urged him to sue. My message is here, talks about challenging the decision to cancel the contract, not sue. Through legal means. Through a lawyer, because I won’t do it, I can’t do it, and I won’t do it.”

Advocate Adila Hassim then asked him if he agreed that he urged Matlala to seek legal advice, Senona agreed.

MADLANGA COMMISSION | Maj-Gen Lesetja Senona says, “It is clear I have never protected this man (Vusi ‘Cat’ Matlala).” pic.twitter.com/FQEuKdQ50L

— SABC News (@SABCNews) January 28, 2026