- Facing attempted murder charges linked to ex-girlfriend Tebogo Thobejane.
- State argues Matlala is a flight risk with ties to multiple dockets.
- He offers R100,000 bail and reveals assets worth millions.
Gauteng tenderpreneur Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala is fighting to secure bail after the state opposed his application, arguing he is a flight risk. Matlala appeared before the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court on Monday, where he submitted a detailed affidavit through his lawyer, advocate Laurance Hodes SC.
The 49-year-old businessman is facing charges of attempted murder relating to the October 2023 attack on his ex-girlfriend, actress and influencer Tebogo Thobejane, and two of her friends.
Denial of Jet and Boat Ownership
During proceedings, Hodes read out Matlala’s affidavit, in which he strongly disputed the investigating officer’s claims that he owns a private jet and a boat in Mauritius.
“These allegations are false and amount to perjury,” Matlala stated, rejecting suggestions that his supposed wealth made him a flight risk.
The investigating officer, who is under police protection, previously told the court that Matlala’s alleged assets meant he could easily evade justice.
Previous Convictions and Arrest Record
Matlala admitted that at the age of 25, he was convicted in 2001 for housebreaking and theft, for which he served four years. However, he insisted he has no other convictions or pending cases.
The state, however, painted a different picture, pointing out that Matlala has been arrested 11 times on various charges, including attempted murder and illegal possession of firearms.
Lifestyle, Wealth, and Family
Matlala told the court that he is the director of four Pretoria-based companies: CAT VIP Protection, Lux of Africa Investments, Black AK Trading, and Medi Care 24 Tshwane District, generating a combined monthly income of R250,000.
He disclosed assets including:
- A Midstream Ridge Estate property worth R6.6 million.
- A Mamelodi East property worth R1.1 million.
- A luxury car collection of six BMW sedans and a Mercedes-Benz SUV valued at R6 million.
He lives with his wife Tsakani and their three daughters while financially supporting six other children. Matlala also cited chronic asthma and tonsillitis as health concerns requiring regular treatment.
He indicated he could afford R100,000 bail.
Additional Dockets to Be Added
The state revealed plans to attach two more cases to the attempted murder docket. These relate to:
- The August 2022 shooting of taxi mogul Joe Sibanyoni outside Centurion Golf Estate.
- The January 2024 shooting of Pretoria DJ Seunkie Mokubong (DJ Vettys).
Both matters remain under investigation.