Alleged Crime Kingpin ‘Cat’ Matlala Back in Court Today for Pre-Trial Hearing

Alleged crime boss Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and his four co-accused are expected to appear in the High Court in Johannesburg on Thursday for a pre-trial hearing in their attempted murder case.

Matlala faces serious charges relating to the alleged attempted murders of:

• His former girlfriend, Tebogo Thobejane

• Taxi boss Joe Sibanyoni

• Music producer Seunkie Mokubung

A Case Dogged by Delays

According to the SABC, the matter has been postponed several times in recent months, largely due to concerns raised by Matlala’s defence team over his incarceration at the Kokstad super-maximum correctional facility.

His lawyers have previously told the court that conditions at the prison made it difficult to properly consult with their client. The defence complained that consultations were hampered by a thick glass partition at the facility, preventing private and effective communication.

The court directed the Department of Correctional Services to make a consultation room available at Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre to allow Matlala and his lawyers to meet without obstruction.

Fresh Bail Bid Expected

During his last court appearance, Matlala’s legal team indicated that they intend to bring a fresh bail application based on what they described as new facts.

Matlala and his co-accused remain in custody as the case continues.

The Hearing Proceeds

Despite the ongoing issues raised by the defence, Acting Judge William Karam has indicated that the pre-trial hearing will proceed as scheduled on Thursday.

The hearing is expected to address procedural matters and set the stage for the trial proper. Given the history of delays, all eyes will be on whether the matter finally gains momentumor whether further obstacles emerge.

Matlala, once a shadowy figure in Johannesburg’s underworld, now faces the full glare of the courtroom. The pre-trial hearing is another step toward his day in court.

{Source: TheSouthAfrican}

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