These rumours surfaced following the arrest of 12 high-ranking officers and the summoning of the national police commissioner. The legal actions are linked to a controversial contract awarded to Medicare 24, a company owned by Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. According to the Idac, the investigation began in 2024 after the police's risk audit unit flagged suspicious activities.

Officials clarified the case was brought to them by the police’s own internal auditors rather than external political pressure.

They described the online narrative, which suggests the arrests were triggered by recent testimony at the Madlanga Commission of inquiry, as both irresponsible and reckless.

The agency emphasised while it respects the ongoing work of the Madlanga Commission and the parliament ad hoc committee, this specific case followed its own independent investigative path.

 The Idac warned spreading false information only serves to create unnecessary friction within the law enforcement community during a critical time for South African justice.

To ensure accountability, a judge has been appointed to oversee the Idac’s operations and ensure all actions comply with the law.

This oversight allows the public to report any misconduct by officials within the division. The Idac said the directorate is not a law unto itself and must answer to the same legal standards as any other government body. 

Furthermore, the NPA expressed concern that baseless speculation and online attacks could endanger the lives of investigators and their families.

These complex corruption cases involve high-stakes evidence, and the agency maintains that such narratives could destabilise the broader fight against crime. Despite these risks, the directorate remains committed to its constitutional mandate.

The Idac is urging the public to allow the legal process to unfold in court, where all evidence regarding the Medicare 24 matter will be presented. They maintained the arrests were based strictly on available evidence and that no legal rules were broken during the process of taking the suspects into custody.

Addressing criticisms that other individuals should have been charged, the Idac explained they can only act on the evidence currently in their possession.

The Idac further reiterated its focus on discharging its duties with integrity. By following due process, the agency hopes to demonstrate that justice is moving effectively and transparently for all South Africans.

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