Controversial businessman and alleged criminal kingpin Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala has been transferred from Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre in Pretoria to the eBongweni Super-Maximum Correctional Facility in Kokstad, KwaZulu-Natal — South Africa’s most secure prison.
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) confirmed the December 21, 2025 transfer, describing it as a routine security measure based on risk assessments, safety considerations, and operational requirements. DCS spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said National Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale is legally empowered under the Correctional Services Act to relocate inmates when necessary.
Matlala is awaiting trial on multiple charges, including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering. He is accused of orchestrating a 2023 assassination attempt on his former partner, actress and socialite Tebogo Thobejane, and has been linked to alleged tender fraud at Tembisa Hospital and suspected manipulation of police tenders.
eBongweni — famously known as C-Max — is regarded as the country’s most secure facility, with strict control measures including 23-hour solitary confinement, near-constant surveillance, restricted movement, and secured exercise yards. The prison has never recorded an escape and previously housed notorious criminals such as Ananias Mathe and Radovan Krejčír.
Anti-crime activist Yusuf Abramjee welcomed the transfer, saying it likely reflects heightened security concerns. However, critic Johannes Majoe of Exclusive Mediators questioned the decision, arguing it could be costly as Matlala’s trial is set to resume at the Johannesburg High Court in January 2026.
The DCS has assured the public that the move will not interfere with Matlala’s legal rights or access to court proceedings. Speculation continues to surround the high-profile accused as investigations into alleged criminal networks remain ongoing.