Tsakani Matlala: New charges deepen high‑profile case against ‘Cat’ Matlala

Tsakani Matlala, wife of businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, has been formally charged alongside her husband in the high-stakes attempted murder case involving actress Tebogo Thobejane. New allegations and legal developments have intensified the spotlight on this high-profile trial.

Tsakani Matlala Added to Charge Sheet

The Alexandra Magistrate’s Court confirmed that Tsakani Matlala was recently added to the charge sheet in the 2023 shooting incident. Prosecutors allege she was involved in organising the botched assassination attempt of socialite Thobejane, who was wounded on the N1 highway near Sandton.

She is now co-accused with her husband, Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, as well as two alleged accomplices, Musa Kekana and Tiegi Floyd Mabusela. Her court appearance signifies the state’s intention to pursue a broader anti-conspiracy case.

Multiple Charges & Consolidated Cases

Tsakani faces charges mirroring those leveled against her husband, including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering. The state is consolidating additional related cases, one in Pretoria West and another in Lyttelton, into this trial.

The prosecution’s expansion of the docket reflects efforts to build a robust narrative of a coordinated attack linked to a wider web of corruption and financial crime.

State Ordered to Provide Full Docket

In a significant ruling, the court has given the National Prosecuting Authority two weeks to hand over the complete case docket, including sections B and C, after defence lawyers complained only section A was provided.

This directive aims to level the playing field ahead of the August 26 continuation, ensuring all defence evidence, such as bank statements and cellphone records, is reviewed by Tsakani’s legal team. The matter was then postponed to that date.

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Health-Aware Bail & Court Appearance

Tsakani was granted R20,000 bail earlier due to health concerns and her responsibilities as a mother. Conditions include remaining in Gauteng, surrendering her passport, and avoiding contact with witnesses or alleged co-perpetrators.

She appeared peacefully alongside her husband on July 11, accompanied by heavy courtroom security. Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala was under guard in shackles, highlighting the gravity of the accusations.

High–Profile Links & Political Fallout

The case carries additional gravity due to allegations of deep-rooted corruption. KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi implicated the Matlalas in a bidder’s scandal involving SAPS health tenders worth R360 million, allegedly connected to Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.

The spotlight on Tsakani thus overlaps with larger narratives of state capture and political interference, raising both legal and ethical questions in South Africa’s justice system.

What’s at Stake Ahead of August 26

With the full docket expected within two weeks, Tsakani’s legal team will scrutinize additional evidence to challenge the prosecution’s case. The August 26 hearing will be pivotal in determining whether the case proceeds to trial or faces procedural setbacks.

Public Interest & Legal Implications

The Matlalas’ trial is drawing significant media attention due to alleged involvement in violence, financial crime, and potential influence over public institutions. As Tsakani’s role comes under intense legal exposure, the trial’s outcome may have wide-reaching consequences.

Tsakani Matlala’s entry into the dock signals a widening probe into a sophisticated criminal case involving attempted murder, conspiracy, and money laundering. With the state mandated to disclose its full evidence bundle, the August hearing could reveal crucial revelations, or unravel key legal strategies. The Matlala saga remains one of South Africa’s most closely watched legal dramas.