Explosive testimony before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has revealed chilling details of how alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala reportedly paid R150,000 to have his ex-girlfriend, actress Tebogo Thobejane, killed in a 2023 shooting that left her injured and another woman permanently paralysed.
According to Witness C, who testified on 30 October 2025, Matlala allegedly paid the hitmen in two instalments – R50,000 days before the 12 July 2023 attack and a further R100,000 the day after the shooting. The money, investigators say, was channelled through a business account belonging to Nthabiseng Nzama, daughter of one of Matlala’s co-accused, Floyd Tiego Mahusela.
The ambush occurred along the N1 near Sandton, Johannesburg, when gunmen opened fire on Thobejane’s vehicle. She was shot in the foot, while her friend — identified only as “Lerato” — suffered a spinal injury, leaving her paralysed. Fearing for her safety, Thobejane has since fled South Africa and is reportedly living under protection abroad.
Matlala, arrested in May 2025 during a high-profile police raid in Midrand, faces charges of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering linked to the plot. His wife, Tsakani, and three alleged accomplices face similar charges.
The Commission also heard damning evidence linking Matlala to drug trafficking, illegal money-lending operations, and the disappearance of businessman Jerry Boshoga. Investigators further revealed that Matlala previously secured a R360 million SAPS supply contract, later cancelled amid corruption suspicions.
Despite repeated attempts, Matlala’s bail has been denied several times, with the court citing him as a flight risk and a threat to witnesses.
The Madlanga Commission continues to probe the extent of his alleged criminal network and political connections. Proceedings have been postponed to 11 November 2025, where more witnesses are expected to testify in what has become one of South Africa’s most explosive crime and corruption sagas in recent years.