CAT MATLALA AND CO-ACCUSED APPEAR IN THE HIGH COURT 

29 January 2026

CAT MATLALA AND CO-ACCUSED APPEAR IN THE HIGH COURT 

The pre-trial conference for Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala commenced before the High Court of South Africa, Gauteng Division, in Johannesburg. Matlala made his first High Court appearance alongside his co-accused, Musa Kekana, Tiego Floyd Mabusela, Zandile Nthabiseng Nzama, and his wife, Tsakane Matlala. 

The State presented a media statement from the Department of Correctional Services dated 30 December 2025, stating that Matlala was transferred to eMbongweni Correctional Facility for security reasons. The statement also said court appearances and legal processes will continue without hindrance and that the transfer did not prejudice Matlala's legal rights. However, the defence intends to bring an urgent application requesting that Matlala be moved from the facility, citing difficulties in consulting with him. 

Matlala and his co-accused face 25 charges, 11 of which are for attempted murder, stemming from three separate shooting incidents between August 2022 and January 2024. The State further alleges that, among other offences, the accused opened fire on Tebogo Thobejane and other complainants, laundered over R120 000 connected to the alleged murder plot and submitted a fraudulent invoice in an attempt to conceal the origin of the funds and mislead the court. 

The matter was postponed to 06 February 2026 for further particulars. Accused one, two and three remain in custody, while accused four and five’s bail is extended. 

Issued by:

Phindi Mjonondwane

NPA Regional Spokesperson, 

Gauteng Division: Johannesburg