‘Big Five Cartel’ Boss Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala Loses Bail Appeal In High Court

Security company owner Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala has lost his bid to be released on bail after the Johannesburg High Court on Monday dismissed his appeal.

Matlala, who faces an attempted murder charge, was previously denied bail by the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court, which ruled that he poses a danger to society and could potentially interfere with state witnesses if released.

Matlala’s Attempted Murder of Actress Tebogo Thobejane

He is alleged to be the mastermind behind the 2023 shooting of his ex-girlfriend, actress Tebogo Thobejane, whose vehicle was sprayed with bullets in Sandton. The incident sparked widespread outrage and renewed attention on the growing influence of organised criminal networks in Johannesburg.

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During hearings at the Madlanga Commission, it was alleged that Matlala and fellow businessman Katiso “TK” Molefe are key members of the so-called “Big Five cartel” — a powerful network accused of public tender corruption, contract killings, drug distribution, kidnappings, and cross-border vehicle hijackings.

Co-Accused Molefe Granted Bail

Molefe, who has been implicated in the murder of DJ Sumbody and his two bodyguards, also approached the high court after being denied bail. Unlike Matlala, he was successful in his appeal and granted R400,000 bail.

The state maintains that investigations into the cartel’s alleged criminal empire remain ongoing, with further arrests and asset seizures expected as part of the broader crackdown on organised crime and tender fraud.

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