Alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and his wife Tsakani Matlala appeared in the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court on July 11, 2025. Matlala faces multiple serious charges including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering.
The 49-year-old businessman is accused of orchestrating an attack on his ex-girlfriend, actress Tebogo Thobejane, whose vehicle was shot at in Sandton in October 2023. Thobejane sustained injuries during the incident.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is seeking to combine several cases against Matlala into one proceeding. NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonodwane explained that the postponement until September 2 allows time to centralize cases from different areas.
Matlala will remain in custody until his next court appearance, when he will have a bail application hearing. His wife, previously released on R20,000 bail due to health concerns and her responsibility as a mother, also faces charges along with three co-accused.
The case has drawn attention from political parties, with the MK Party stating it will closely monitor proceedings. This follows claims by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi that Matlala was involved in events that led to the disbanding of the political killings task team.
The charges against Matlala also include allegations of money laundering involving a R360 million police health services tender.