Staff Reporter
Controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala was on Wednesday denied bail by the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court, which ruled he posed a flight risk and could interfere with witnesses.
Magistrate Syta Prinsloo said Matlala had not shown “exceptional circumstances” justifying his release on bail.
“The nature and seriousness of the offences demonstrate a clear danger to the safety of the community. The state’s case at this stage cannot be described as weak,” Prinsloo said.
Matlala faces charges of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, defeating the ends of justice, and money laundering, in relation to the 2023 failed hit on his former lover, Tebogo Thobejane.
The matter was postponed to October 7.
Prosecutors argued that Matlala, a politically connected businessman, failed to dispel concerns that he might obstruct justice.
Evidence presented suggested he could use influence to tamper with witnesses.
Matlala has previously been linked to allegations of police corruption. KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi alleged earlier this year that Matlala was among businessmen accused of cultivating ties within law enforcement to shield criminal operations.
Those allegations led to the establishment of the Madlanga Commission, which started its investigation on Wednesday, with Mkhwanazi as the first witness.
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