Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala Back In Court For Tebogo Thobejane Attempted Murder Bail Hearing

Alleged businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, 49, is set to return to the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court on Monday for the continuation of his bail application in the attempted murder case involving actress and socialite Tebogo Thobejane.

Matlala faces charges of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering. The case stems from a 2023 shooting on the N1 highway near Sandton, where Thobejane—best known for her role in Muvhango—was shot in the foot.

A female passenger in Thobejane’s vehicle suffered a severe spinal injury during the attack and has since been left paralysed. The state is strongly opposing Matlala’s bail, describing him as a “dangerous criminal with no regard for human life.”

Matlala Denies Charges, Claims Victim Sought His Protection

Appearing under heavy police guard and shackled, Matlala denied all charges through his legal counsel, Advocate Laurence Hodes SC, calling them “baseless” and “lacking in substance.”

“I intend to plead not guilty to all these charges should this matter ever proceed to trial against me. I am certain that I will be found not guilty at the close of the state’s case,” Matlala said in a sworn affidavit.

The owner of CAT Protection Services further claimed that Thobejane herself contacted him multiple times between October 2023 and June 2024, seeking his help and protection—even after the shooting.

“This particular victim contacted me several times after the shooting, asking for my help and protection, as I am in the security industry,” he stated, adding that he eventually declined due to the ongoing police investigation.

Matlala also confirmed knowing another victim listed in the indictment, describing her as a former partner. He insisted their relationship ended amicably in 2021 and denied any involvement in conspiring with his co-accused.

State Opposes Bail, Cites Flight Risk and Criminal Record

Prosecutors painted a different picture, arguing that Matlala poses a severe risk if released. They accused him of arranging Thobejane’s attempted killing and highlighted his access to a private jet, frequent international travel, and alleged undocumented entries into South Africa.

“This raises the inference that the applicant may have entered the country through informal or undocumented means,” the state argued.

The prosecution also accused Matlala of witness tampering, alleging contact with the daughter of one of his co-accused—herself a state witness—as recently as May 2025.

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Matlala’s criminal history was also raised, with the state citing a 2001 conviction for housebreaking and at least 11 prior arrests for charges including attempted murder and illegal firearm possession.

In light of new claims raised in his affidavit, Magistrate Dyta Prinsloo postponed the matter, with the bail hearing set to continue on Monday, September 8, 2025.

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