Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala iappeared in Alexandra Magistrates’ Court for formal bail application. Image: Sowetan Live.
(The Post News)- Businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala appeared before the Alexandra magistrate’s court on Tuesday for a formal bail application. His second attempt after previously ditching the bail hearing.
Reports indicate that Matlala is facing serious charges of attempted murder and conspiracy to commit murder, stemming from a 2023 alleged hit on his former girlfriend, Muvhango actress Tebogo Thobejane. Matlala is accused of masterminding a hit on Thobejane near Sandton in 2023.
At the time, Thobejane was traveling with a friend when their vehicle was sprayed with bullets. Thobejane was shot in the foot, while her companion sustained severe spinal injuries, resulting in long-term health complications and an extended hospital stay.
Matlala Shocked to be Linked in Thobejane Attempted Murder
However, in court today, during his bail application, Matlala claimed that his ex-girlfriend, actress and socialite Tebogo Thobejane, wanted him for protection and assistance even after she was the victim of a shooting incident in 2023. Thus, he revealed that he is “shocked” to be connected with the attempted murder of Thobejane.
Additionally, according to three police dockets, he will be charged with attempted murder, conspiracy, and money laundering. He asserted that all of these accusations are unfounded and unsubstantiated. He refuted the accusations and contested the state’s attempt to provide proof that he was either directly or indirectly responsible for these acts.
The National Prosecuting Authority had confirmed its intent to oppose his bail, noting the gravity of the charges and his alleged ties to broader criminal networks. However, in an affidavit presented by his lawyer, Matlala noted that he is not violent, and the offenses for which he was found guilty did not entail any level of violence or an implied threat of further acts.
Meanwhile, Matlala has previously appeared in court with his wife, Tsakani Matlala, under tight police security. During that appearance, his bail application was postponed, and he was instructed to stay in custody until today’s hearing. Tsakani, along with a younger co-accused, Nthabiseng Nzama (23), was granted bail of R20,000, subject to strict conditions. These include surrendering their travel documents, staying within Gauteng, and refraining from contacting witnesses or other co-accused.
The case has been rescheduled for September 8th, and Matlala will be detained until his next appearance.
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