An emotional testimony unfolded at the Kgoshi Mampuru Prison in Pretoria when alleged criminal mastermind Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala recounted his traumatic childhood during an Adhoc Committee hearing probing allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
Matlala told the committee he grew up on the streets after his mother — whom he described as an albino — disappeared under tragic circumstances. He alleged she was the victim of sexual violence driven by harmful superstitions.
“My mother, she was an albino. I learned she was raped because some people believe you can be cured of some things if you rape an albino. After that, she disappeared and I raised myself in the streets,” said Matlala. He added that he later found her “terminally ill” and that she passed away shortly afterward.
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema responded with empathy, opening his line of questioning by expressing condolences.
“Our children and our wives should never be treated like that. Even the most hardened criminals should not be treated that way. I am sorry,” Malema said.
uMkhonto weSizwe Party MP Vusi Shongwe also expressed compassion, saying he hoped Matlala’s story “would have a happy ending.”
Malema then confronted Matlala with allegations from the family of Jerry Boshoga, who believe he is responsible for Boshoga’s kidnapping. In response, Matlala strongly denied any involvement.
“Mama, I regard Jerry as my younger brother. I assure you that I have never and will never harm Jerry. I believe you are being misled, and the people who are misleading you are the same people who put me in prison,” he said.
Matlala maintains his innocence and has vowed to continue fighting for bail. He claims that several individuals, including members of the South African Police Service, have submitted affidavits in support of his assertions.
The allegations against Matlala, as well as his claims, have not been tested in court.