Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala moved to Ebongweni Super-Max Prison in Kokstad — here’s why

Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, the controversial businessman turned accused crime figure, has been transferred to the Ebongweni Super-Maximum Correctional Centre in Kokstad, KwaZulu-Natal, one of South Africa’s most secure prisons.

Correctional authorities confirmed that the relocation forms part of heightened security measures reserved for inmates classified as high-risk. While officials declined to provide specific details behind the decision, they said the facility is designed to manage dangerous, influential, and high-profile prisoners.

The transfer, confirmed on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, comes as Matlala faces multiple serious criminal charges and remains in custody following repeated bail denials. He was previously held at Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre in Pretoria, where he had been detained since his arrest earlier this year.

Why Matlala Was Transferred

Sources within the correctional system say Matlala was flagged as a security concern due to his alleged links to powerful criminal and political networks, as well as previous prison infractions. In July 2025, he was reportedly found in possession of a cellphone while in custody—an incident that resulted in his initial transfer to a stricter section within Kgosi Mampuru.

Ebongweni, often referred to as C-Max, is reserved for inmates considered capable of influencing others, orchestrating crimes from behind bars, or attempting escape. Prisoners at the facility are typically subjected to 23-hour lockdowns, restricted movement, and non-contact visits.

Its remote location in Kokstad is also strategic, limiting access and reducing the risk of external interference, smuggling, or coordinated escape attempts.

Serious Charges Before the Courts

Matlala was arrested in May 2025 in Midrand following investigations linked to a 2023 shooting incident involving his former partner, socialite Tebogo Thobejane. Her vehicle was ambushed near Sandton and riddled with bullets, though she escaped unharmed.

Prosecutors allege the attack was a planned hit. Matlala faces charges including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering. He is standing trial alongside co-accused persons, including his wife Tsakani Matlala, Tlego Floyd Mabusela, and Musa Kekana.

Courts have repeatedly denied him bail, citing concerns that he poses a threat to witnesses and public safety. His most recent bail appeal was dismissed by the Johannesburg High Court in October 2025. The matter is expected to return to court on January 29, 2026.

From Business Success to Incarceration

Matlala’s journey to Ebongweni marks a dramatic fall from prominence. Raised in Pretoria, he built a lucrative business empire through security and healthcare companies, including Cat VIP Protection and Medicare 24 Tshwane District.

He secured several government contracts, most notably a R360 million SAPS healthcare tender, which was later cancelled in 2025 over alleged irregularities. Investigations have also linked his companies to questionable dealings at public health facilities, including Tembisa Hospital.

Often labelled a “tenderpreneur,” Matlala’s business success has long been shadowed by controversy.

Alleged Criminal History and Political Links

Matlala’s criminal record dates back more than two decades, with arrests linked to theft, housebreaking, assault, and cash-in-transit crimes. While many cases were withdrawn or ended in acquittals, he previously served time for possession of stolen property.

He has also been named in major investigations, including testimony before the Madlanga Commission, where he was described as part of a powerful syndicate accused of infiltrating law enforcement structures.

Claims of close ties to senior police officials and politicians have further fuelled public scrutiny. Allegations of relationships with high-ranking figures have been denied, but remain a focal point of ongoing investigations into corruption and organised crime.

Life Inside Ebongweni

Ebongweni Correctional Centre houses some of South Africa’s most notorious inmates, including convicted murderer and escapee Thabo Bester. Conditions prioritise security over comfort, with strict surveillance and minimal contact with the outside world.

For Matlala, the move means tighter restrictions and greater isolation, but authorities insist the measure is necessary to maintain prison safety and prevent abuse of influence.

As his case progresses toward trial, Matlala’s detention in Kokstad underscores the state’s broader efforts to confront organised crime, corruption, and prison security failures.

For now, he remains far from the public eye—but the legal battle surrounding his name continues to draw national attention.