Controversial businessman Vusi ‘Cat’ Matlala will appear in the Johannesburg High Court on Monday to appeal a ruling that denied him bail.
Matlala, who faces charges of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering, was denied bail last month by the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court, which found he posed a flight risk.
According to IOL, the charges stem from a shooting incident on the N1 highway near Sandton in 2023, in which Matlala’s former partner, actress and socialite Tebogo Thobejane, was injured. Thobejane, best known for her role in Muvhango, was allegedly shot in the foot when gunmen opened fire on her vehicle.
Police later arrested Matlala, whom they allege masterminded the attack.
When bail was denied in September, Magistrate Syta Prinsloo ruled that Matlala had failed to demonstrate exceptional circumstances that would justify his release.
She said the court was not convinced that he would stand trial if granted bail.
“The accused did not provide sufficient proof that he would not evade trial or interfere with witnesses,” Prinsloo stated in her ruling.
Prosecutors from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) argued that Matlala had access to significant financial resources and international connections, making him a potential flight risk.
The State alleged that he has foreign assets in Mauritius and access to a private jet, which could facilitate his escape from South Africa.
Investigators also found that Matlala was in possession of a fraudulent Eswatini identity document, further raising concerns about his potential to flee the country.
The NPA confirmed that it would strongly oppose Matlala’s appeal, insisting that the magistrate’s earlier decision was sound and based on credible evidence.
“The State will continue to oppose bail due to the seriousness of the charges and the risk posed by the accused,” an NPA spokesperson said.
Matlala has denied the allegations, maintaining that he had no involvement in the shooting and that he has been unfairly targeted. His legal team is expected to argue in the High Court that he has cooperated with investigators and has strong community ties that would ensure his attendance at trial.
If Matlala’s appeal is unsuccessful, he will remain in custody pending trial. The Johannesburg High Court is expected to deliver its ruling later this week after hearing arguments from both sides.
