Controversial businessman Vusi ‘Cat’ Matlala will remain behind bars after the Johannesburg High Court on Monday dismissed his bail appeal.
The ruling follows a week-long delay after judgment was reserved, pending the court’s review of evidence tied to his alleged involvement in a shooting incident and a widening corruption investigation within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Matlala, who faces charges of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering, was denied bail by the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court in September after Magistrate Syta Prinsloo ruled that he posed a flight risk.
The court heard that Matlala allegedly masterminded a 2023 highway shooting in Sandton that left his former partner, actress and socialite Tebogo Thobejane, injured.
Prosecutors from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) argued that Matlala’s significant financial resources, including foreign assets and access to private air travel, made him likely to evade trial if released.
The ruling comes amid explosive revelations at the Madlanga Commission, where Matlala has been repeatedly mentioned in testimony regarding an alleged R1.2 billion SAPS tender scandal.
Last week, a detective identified as Witness C testified that Matlala claimed close ties with several high-ranking police officials, including Deputy National Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya and counterintelligence head Feroz Khan.
Witness C alleged that these officials assisted Matlala in securing lucrative SAPS contracts and that payments were routed through intermediaries linked to the force.
The testimony also suggested that Matlala was tipped off about a police raid on his Centurion mansion in December 2024.
Further scrutiny over Matlala’s connections has also spilled into Parliament’s ongoing ad hoc committee hearings.
Former police minister Bheki Cele, during his appearance before the committee last week, acknowledged that “many ANC leaders” had been seen with Matlala.
While Cele stopped short of alleging political interference, his comments have intensified public debate about the businessman’s influence across government structures.
Matlala’s legal team maintains that he has been unfairly targeted, claiming that his business dealings are legitimate and that his high profile has made him an easy scapegoat.
The NPA, however, insists that the seriousness of the charges and his alleged manipulation of police networks justify his continued detention.
Matlala’s name has become synonymous with corruption allegations in the public sector. His extensive business portfolio includes multiple companies that have received state contracts, making him one of South Africa’s most recognisable “tenderpreneurs” — individuals who build wealth through government procurement systems.
His profile was the subject of our Crime Central SA investigative documentary, which detailed how Matlala allegedly used his wealth and influence to cultivate relationships with politicians and senior police officials.
The High Court’s decision means Matlala will remain in custody at a Gauteng correctional facility pending the start of his trial.
