Cachalia tasked with finding solutions to SAPS tender scandal

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia releases of the third quarter crime statistics in Pretoria on February 20, 2026.

Acting Police Minister Prof Firoz Cachalia says he has been tasked with providing options to President Cyril Ramaphosa on how to address the South African Police Service (SAPS) tender scandal involving National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola.

Masemola has been summoned to appear in court next month over the R360 million health services tender awarded to alleged cartel kingpin Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.

Twelve senior police officers have also been arrested in connection with the matter and are out on bail.

Cachalia says it is important that any action taken by President serves to strengthen the police service.

He says, “I together with (Justice and Constitutional Development) Minister (Mmamoloko) Kubayi have met with the President.”

“We’ve shared some initial reflections and I was given some homework to do, which I have almost completed reflecting on the options that could be considered in the circumstances and I will be sending my advice to the president but it should be remembered that this is the President’s decision.”

“Under the Constitution and the South African Police Act, it’s the President who appoints the National Police Commissioner,” he adds.