By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Gauteng High Court denied the controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala bail amidst serious charges including attempted murder and conspiracy, upholding Alexandra’s magistrate court decision.
Matlala launched an urgent application, seeking to overturn a previous decision by the magistrate’s court to deny him bail.
He faces several serious charges, including the attempted murder of his ex-girlfriend, and socialite Tebogo Thobejane.
He also faces charges of conspiracy to commit murder, fraud, money laundering, and defeating the ends of justice.
The High Court found that Matlala poses multiple risks that justified keeping him in custody. The court determined he represents a flight risk, poses a danger to witnesses and the broader community, and that the State has built a substantial case against him.
This means he remains in custody. The magistrate’s court referred to Matlala’s charge as schedule 6 of the Criminal Procedure Act.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomed the High Court’s decision. “The NPA welcomes the judgement and is of the view that the court made the right decision in denying Matlala bail, considering the severity of the charges and the risk to public safety and law enforcement officers, including the investigating officer and the prosecutors involved in the matter,” said Phindi Mjonondwane, NPA spokesperson.
“The judgment proves once more that as the NPA we cannot rest on our loriels but must continue working tirelessly to ensure that justice prevails.”
Matlala is alleged in testimony at the Madlanga Commission to be a key figure in a drug cartel known as the Big Five. Top police officers testified that the cartel has infiltrated South Africa’s politics and law enforcement.
He is also alleged to have tried to push for the disbandment of the PKTT, and was allegedly informed by North West businessman Brown Mogotsi of sidelined police minister Senzo Mchunu’s move to disband the team.
The December 2024 operation coincided with simultaneous raids to arrest Katiso “KT” Molefe, also alleged to be a member of the Big Five, and his nephew, Lucky Molefe.