Businessman Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala says he’s being framed

Controversial businessman, Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala, will remain behind bars as the state prepares to oppose his latest bid for bail, in what’s shaping up to be one of the most high-profile legal cases.

The 49-year-old, is accused of orchestrating a failed assassination attempt on his ex-girlfriend, well-known media personality Tebogo Thobejane. He now faces a complex web of charges and counter-claims, including allegations of a fraud and identity theft and allegations of political interference.

– A high-stakes bail bid –

In a bail affidavit exceeding over 100 pages, Matlala’s lawyer, Laurence Hode, argued that his clients continued detention is unjust, claiming it prevents him from working, supporting his nine children, and covering his legal fees.

Matlala has offered R100,000 bail, citing chronic medication needs and asthma. He also accused the state of tampering with his confiscated mobile devices, allegedly by inserting incriminating data after seizure.

However, the prosecutor, whose name is withheld for security reasons, told the court that Matlala had been actively monitoring the investigators assigned to his case, posing a direct threat to their safety.

– The state’s case and explosive allegations –

The state says it has compelling evidence to prove Matlala is a dangerous individual with the means and motive to flee the country if he is released on bail.

Their case includes damning affidavits and forensic data, and centers on three major claims:

Fake Identity and Planted Evidence

Matlala insists police planted an eSwatini passport under the name “Vusimuzi Dlamini” to frame him.

The state alleges he used multiple falsified documents, including a fake funeral invoice claiming a R100,000 payment for one of his daughters.

Prison Phone Scandal

In explosive court testimony, it was alleged that Matlala used a hidden cellphone while in custody and attempted to destroy it by flushing it down a toilet. The phone was recovered and sent for forensic analysis.

Political Interference

Data from the recovered device allegedly shows activity on July 6 — the same day KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi held a high-profile briefing. During that media address, Mkhwanazi made allegations of political interference and corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS) and named Matlala as a politically connected businessman.

The state further claims that Matlala’s phone contained contact information for a Hawks officer saved as “Operator,” and another for North West businessman Brown Mogotsi—allegedly linked to suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.

Mchunu has publicly denied these allegations.

The matter has been postponed to next Monday when the state will present its arguments against Matlala’s bail bid.

Matlala remains in custody as the case unfolds, leaving many questions about the alleged hit, political connections, and the integrity of evidence in this high-profile case.

Written by: Lebohang Ndashe