Bail decision awaited for businessman Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala
Zuko Komisa
- A prominent South African businessman accused of ordering a hit on his socialite girlfriend is awaiting a court decision on his bail application.
- The decision from the Alexandra Magistrates Court follows Matlala’s renewed bail application this month, which he had initially abandoned.
- Matlala’s case has attracted public attention following allegations of his involvement in questionable dealings with senior police and politicians.
Vusimuzi Matlala, a prominent businessman accused of attempting to murder his girlfriend, socialite Tebogo Thobejane, will hear on Wednesday if his bail application has been successful.
The decision from the Alexandra Magistrates Court follows Matlala’s renewed bail application this month, which he had initially abandoned.
He faces charges of attempted murder and money laundering alongside his wife, Tsakane, and three other co-accused.
Matlala has gained public attention since a police briefing in July by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who alleged the businessman had been involved in questionable dealings with senior politicians and high-ranking police officials.
However, the charges Matlala faces are related to the alleged hit on Thobejane, which occurred in December 2023.
In his plea for bail, Matlala cited serious health concerns, including asthma and chronic tonsillitis, claiming he could die in custody.
The state has opposed the application, arguing that his ownership of a private jet and assets in Mauritius makes him a significant flight risk.