Seven South African Police Service (SAPS) officers suspended over the controversial Medicare24 tender have returned to work. SAPS confirmed their return but stressed that it does not mean the officers have been cleared. Disciplinary proceedings against them remain ongoing.
National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said: “Indeed, the members have returned to work. However, this should not be interpreted as them having been cleared, as disciplinary proceedings against them are still ongoing.”
SAPS Officers Return Amid Medicare24 Tender Investigation
Mathe said the investigation had not been completed because of the complexity of the matter. “The investigation remains ongoing due to the complexity of the matter, and it would therefore be premature to comment on its outcome at this stage,” she told IOL.
The officers were among those investigated over the R360 million Medicare24 contract linked to businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. SAPS previously confirmed further suspensions in June as internal disciplinary processes continued.
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The Medicare24 tender has faced scrutiny over alleged procurement irregularities. The state alleges SAPS advertised the tender on 31 January 2024 with a closing date of 19 February, falling short of the minimum 21-day advertising period required by National Treasury regulations.
Investigators allege the tender was not urgent and that no approval had been granted to shorten the advertising period. The state further alleges that although 22 companies submitted bids, Medicare24 did not meet the requirements of an acceptable tender but was nevertheless awarded the contract.
Medicare24 Case Involves Alleged Police Collusion
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The state alleges that police officials unlawfully colluded with Matlala and his company during the procurement process. The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) carried out arrests in the case. The accused officers and others arrested remain out on bail ranging between R40,000 and R80,000.
Mathe previously said: “Internal departmental processes are currently underway, and in the interest of preserving the integrity of these processes, the SAPS will not provide further comment at this stage.” Matlala remains in custody after being denied bail in a separate matter.
