From Fast Cars to Shackles: The Rise and Fall of ‘Cat’ Matlala as His Case Grows

Once known for his designer suits and luxury rides, controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala now wears prison shackles and appears in court under the watch of a heavy police presence. His fall from grace continues as new charges are expected to be added to a widening criminal case that has gripped Gauteng and beyond.

The Shooting that Started it All

In 2023, South African socialite and actress Tebogo Thobejane, best known for her role in Muvhango, was shot in the foot while travelling on the N1 near Sandton. A female passenger with her was left with a serious spinal injury. That shocking incident put Matlala’s name in headlines, with prosecutors alleging he orchestrated the attack.

Matlala now faces multiple charges, including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering. But the story is far from over — two other criminal matters in Pretoria West and Lyttelton are expected to be merged into this case.

Courtroom Chaos and High Security Measures

Matlala, 49, appeared alongside three co-accused at the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court last Friday. His appearance wasn’t your average court day — it came with a sizeable special task force presence and heightened security. He was transported from the maximum-security C-Max unit at Kgosi Mampuru Prison, where he is being held as a high-risk inmate.

His wife, Tsakani Matlala, was added to the charge sheet in May and granted R20,000 bail, under strict conditions, including travel restrictions and no contact with witnesses.

Their co-accused include Musa Kekana and Tiegi Floyd “Danny” Mabusela. All are due back in court on 26 August.

Corruption, Tender Fraud and a Cellphone Scandal

Beyond the attempted hit, Matlala is being investigated for laundering millions through a dodgy R360 million health services contract allegedly awarded by SAPS. Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola scrapped the deal in May, stating the company linked to Matlala should never have qualified in the first place.

Things took a darker turn when, during a surprise prison raid, Matlala was caught with a cellphone in his cell — a serious violation that sparked an internal probe. Correctional Services confirmed that he was moved to C-Max for being a high-risk detainee and is now being housed near infamous convict Thabo Bester.

Politics, Police and Explosive Allegations

The case has even spilled into political territory. At a recent press conference in Durban, KZN Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi claimed that Police Minister Senzo Mchunu was under investigation and indirectly linked to corrupt SAPS dealings. He used Matlala’s tender as an example of the rot within police procurement processes.

Minister Mchunu has since publicly denied knowing Matlala or being involved in any wrongdoing, calling the accusations baseless.

A Story Far From Over

As the legal net tightens around him, Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s story has become a symbol of the blurred lines between power, wealth and criminality in South Africa. From high-end living to a prison cell raid, the case is drawing nationwide attention — not only for the drama in court but for what it reveals about deeper systemic failures.

Public opinion is split online. While some social media users express support for Thobejane and hope for justice, others are shocked at the alleged links between tender corruption, organised crime, and top officials.

“We need to know how deep this goes. This isn’t just about one man, it’s about how the system is failing ordinary people,” one X user posted.

The next court appearance is set for 26 August. Until then, the public — and social media — will be watching closely.

Source:IOL 

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