High Court Sets Trial Date For Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala And Co-Accused

The walls are closing in on alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, as his long-awaited trial is finally set to begin in the Johannesburg High Court in January 2026.

A Case That’s Gripped Johannesburg

Matlala, a 49-year-old businessman whose name has echoed through headlines linked to organised crime and alleged assassination plots, appeared alongside his wife, Tsakane Matlala, and four co-accused in the Alexandra Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed that the multiple cases against him have now been centralised, clearing the way for proceedings to begin early next year.

According to the NPA’s Phindi Mjonondwane, the state’s case is extensive, involving 11 counts of attempted murder, three of conspiracy to commit murder, and three counts related to illegal firearm possession. The state also alleges violations of the Organised Crime Act, including money laundering and fraud.

Alleged Targets And The Web Of Violence

Among the alleged victims is socialite and actress Tebogo Thobejane, who survived a botched assassination attempt in October 2023. Another name linked to the case is DJ Wetties (Seunkie Mokubung), who was reportedly a target in the same period.

The charges stretch back to August 2022, when police linked Matlala to an attempted hit on taxi boss Joe Sibanyoni, marking a chilling pattern of orchestrated violence that prosecutors argue points to an organised criminal network.

What Happens Next

Matlala remains behind bars as the countdown to January begins. For prosecutors, the upcoming trial will test the state’s ability to prove what it calls a “well-coordinated criminal enterprise.” For many South Africans, it will be a test of whether justice can finally cut through the layers of fear and influence that have long protected alleged underworld figures.

As Johannesburg braces for the proceedings, the story of “Cat” Matlala stands as another reminder of how thin the line can be between power, crime, and consequence in the city of gold.

{Source:EWN}

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