Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala denies involvement in ex’s shooting – here’s what he said
Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala
Controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala has expressed disbelief at being implicated in the attempted murder of actress and socialite Tebogo Thobejane.
Matlala, who appeared at Alexandra Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday for a bail hearing, insisted he had no involvement in the 2023 attack that left Thobejane injured and her companion paralysed.
“I am astonished to be singled out while others she publicly mentioned face no charges,” Matlala said in an affidavit submitted to the court. “She contacted me for protection after the shooting, but I could not intervene as the matter was under police investigation.”
The businessman, who ended a 13-month relationship with Thobejane in September 2021, denied allegations of attempted murder, conspiracy, and money laundering linked to three separate police cases. “I challenge the state to provide evidence linking me directly or indirectly to these crimes,” he stated.
Read also: Tsakani Matlala: New charges deepen high‑profile case against ‘Cat’ Matlala
The shooting occurred on the N1 highway in 2023. Gunmen opened fire on Thobejane’s vehicle, leaving her with a foot injury, while a companion suffered serious spinal injuries.
Matlala, married and involved in the security sector, emphasised that Thobejane had repeatedly sought his assistance after the attack. He urged the State to clarify that any contact between them did not relate to the incident to avoid allegations of interference with ongoing investigations.
During Tuesday’s court proceedings, the State presented opposing affidavits, including details of Matlala being caught with a mobile phone in his Kgosi Mampuru prison cell in July, showing evidence of him watching a press briefing by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Screenshots revealed calls from alleged crime figure Brown Mogotsi on the same day, raising questions about how Mogotsi knew to reach Matlala while he was incarcerated.
The bail hearing has been postponed to 8 September. Matlala is charged alongside his wife, Tsakani Matlala, and three others, while he maintains his innocence.
