Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala Rejects Drug Cartel Ties As He Testifies Before Police Corruption Inquiry

Controversial businessman and alleged crime kingpin Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala has insisted he has no connection to drug cartels, despite acknowledging that a close associate was deeply involved in narcotics.

Matlala addressed the claims on Thursday during his second day of testimony before the ad hoc committee probing police corruption at Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre in Pretoria.

The committee is convening inside the prison to allow Matlala, who is awaiting trial for attempted murder, to continue giving evidence without transfer complications.

Close Friend’s Drug Activities Come Under Scrutiny

Matlala conceded that his friend, Jerry Boshoga — who was kidnapped for ransom more than a year ago — was involved in drug manufacturing and the narcotics trade.

The inquiry shifted from questions about tenders and alleged payments to former police minister Bheki Cele to Matlala’s possible association with drug networks.

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Evidence leader Norman Arendse pressed Cat on whether he maintained relationships with individuals linked to narcotics, especially given Boshoga’s alleged activities and the circumstances surrounding his kidnapping in Centurion.

“You don’t have any relationship with narcotics or drugs, or drug dealers, or people who deal in narcotics, despite a very good friend of yours being, you say, involved?” Arendse asked.

Loan to Boshoga Was for Farming, Not Drugs, Says Matlala

In response, Cat distanced himself from any criminal undertakings but admitted he does not cut ties with friends who work in the drug trade.

“I’m not okay with it, but I wouldn’t judge him (Boshoga),” he said.

He also confirmed giving Boshoga a R1 million loan, insisting the funds were intended for his cattle farming venture, not drug-related activities.

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