Matlala defence receives key State evidence, vows to oppose any delay to July trial

Alleged crime boss, Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s, legal team says it has finally received key disclosure material from the State and will oppose any attempt to delay the start of the highly anticipated trial scheduled for 20 July.

The developments emerged during Matlala and his co-accused’s appearance in the Johannesburg High Court on Monday, where the court assessed trial readiness and addressed outstanding issues ahead of proceedings expected to begin next month.

Matlala’s attorney, Annelene van der Heever, told the court that most of the disputes surrounding disclosure have now been resolved after the defence previously complained that crucial information required to prepare for trial had not been provided by the State.

Van der Heever said only one disclosure issue remains outstanding and expressed confidence that it could be resolved without the need for a formal application to compel the release of further information.

The defence also made it clear that it wants the matter to proceed as scheduled. Van der Heever reminded the court that a standing order is already in place for the trial to commence on 20 July and said the defence would oppose any attempt to postpone proceedings.

The issue arose during discussions around legal representation for co-accused, Musa Kekana, as well as concerns over the availability of some legal counsel during parts of August and September.

The State maintains that some of the disputed material had already been disclosed earlier this year and has reiterated its readiness to proceed with the trial as planned.

The matter was postponed to Wednesday for further clarity on representation issues, with all parties urged to ensure they are trial-ready ahead of next month’s proceedings.

Matlala, alongside co-accused Musa Kekana, Tiego Floyd Mabusela, Tsakani Matlala and Nthabiseng Nzama, faces 25 charges including attempted murder, fraud and money laundering. The charges relate to three separate shooting incidents allegedly committed between 2022 and 2024.

Matlala and three of his co-accused remain in custody, while Tsakani Matlala and Nthabiseng Nzama are out on bail pending trial.

Written by: Lebohang Ndashe