By Marcus Moloko
Controversial businessman and organised crime accused Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala has appointed a new legal team after his case was transferred to the Johannesburg High Court, with proceedings expected to begin on 29 January 2026.
The move follows months of legal turbulence and public scrutiny surrounding Matlala’s alleged criminal activities and business dealings.
According to a report by eNCA, Matlala’s new legal team has pledged to address growing concerns around his business interests, which have come under intense media and regulatory scrutiny.
The appointment comes after his previous attorney, Victor Nkhwashu, formally withdrew from the case in November, citing undisclosed reasons.
Matlala’s legal troubles began earlier this year when he was arrested in connection with an attempted murder case.
The court heard that in October 2023, Tebogo Thobejane was the target of a shooting in which her passenger, Anele Malinga, was wounded and left paralysed.
Three people were travelling in the vehicle at the time of the attack.
During Matlala’s bail hearing, the court also heard that Thobejane fled the country after receiving threatening calls from individuals allegedly linked to Matlala.
She was warned about his dangerousness and urged to withdraw the charges against him.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed on Wednesday that multiple charges had been laid against him and his co-accused, including conspiracy to commit murder, intimidation, and racketeering.
The charges stem from incidents allegedly linked to Matlala’s business operations and personal disputes.
Initially heard in the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court, the case has now been transferred to the Johannesburg High Court to consolidate several related matters and streamline the trial process.
Prosecutors have indicated that the centralisation of the cases will allow for a more coherent presentation of evidence and witness testimony.
According to the charge sheet, Matlala, a 48-year-old married man with nine children, is self-employed and serves as a director of four companies — CAT VIP Protections, Lux of Africa Investments, Black AK Trading, and Medi Care 24 Tshwane.
His businesses employ 94 people and pay nearly R2 million in wages each month.
He earns a combined monthly income of approximately R250,000 and owns movable and immovable assets valued at more than R13 million.
Matlala has a prior conviction for housebreaking and theft dating back to 2001, for which he served four years in prison.
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