Alleged crime kingpin Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala has once again been denied bail — this time by the Johannesburg High Court — after appealing an earlier ruling by the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court.
Matlala is accused of orchestrating a hit on his actress ex-girlfriend, Tebogo Thobejane, during a shooting on the N1 highway near Sandton in 2023.
One of the key reasons for denying bail was Matlala’s possession of an Eswatini identity document and alleged foreign financial interests. Investigators found evidence of a trust account in Mauritius, which prompted Acting Judge Pieter du Plessis to conclude that Matlala poses a serious flight risk.
Du Plessis said he found no fault in the Magistrates’ Court’s decision, citing fears that Matlala could evade trial if released.
The defence argued that the state had misled the court about the Mauritius assets and insisted Matlala has cooperated with authorities — including a 10-hour interview since becoming aware of the investigation in December 2024.
However, prosecutors revealed that during a raid at Kgosi Mampuru Prison, Matlala was found in possession of a cellphone — a violation that suggested he could interfere with witnesses. The device reportedly contained a contact listed as “Operator” and attempted communication with North West businessman Brown Mogotsi.
Matlala will remain behind bars as investigations continue.