JOHANNESBURG – Notorious South African businessman, Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, will have to spend more time behind bars after he was denied bail at the Alexandra Magistrates Court, which deemed that he is a danger to society.
Matlala, whose connections to top law enforcement officials and politicians have shaken the country, is accused of orchestrating a 2023 hit on his ex-girlfriend, actress and socialite Tebogo Thobejane.
He is charged alongside his wife, Tsakane, and three others, facing charges including attempted murder and money laundering.
The high-profile bail application has drawn national attention, coinciding with KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s testimony before the police commission of inquiry.
In court, Matlala offered to pay R100 000 for bail, saying he is not violent or a flight risk. However, the state alleged he holds a fraudulent Eswatini ID under another surname, has a trust in Mauritius, and travelled to Eswatini twice, making him a flight risk.
It also claimed his devices showed links to law enforcement and politicians — evidence his defence says was planted.
Magistrate Syta Prinsloo didn’t mince her words when she dismissed his application, saying it wouldn’t be in the interest of justice to let him walk free.
She explained that under Schedule 6 of the Criminal Procedure Act, Matlala was required to prove exceptional circumstances for his release. However, the businessman failed to do so.
“Having evaluated the evidence, the court finds the applicant has failed to demonstrate he does not pose a flight risk. He failed to dispel the risk of interference with state witnesses and the obstruction of justice.
“The nature and seriousness of the offences demonstrate a clear danger to the safety of the community.
“The state’s case at this stage cannot be described as weak. In light of the findings, the court cannot be persuaded. The application for bail is accordingly refused,” Prinsloo said.
