Vusi Appears in Court for Attempted Murder of Tebogo Thobejane
Controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala appeared in the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court on Friday alongside his wife Tsakani Matlala and two other co-accused, in connection with the attempted murder of actress and media personality Tebogo Thobejane.
The charges stem from a terrifying October 2023 drive-by shooting in Sandton. Thobejane was wounded after a vehicle pulled up next to her BMW and opened fire, injuring her and her passengers.
“I’ve been living in fear since that night,” said Tebogo Thobejane, reflecting on the traumatic event.
Vusi Matlala, arrested in May 2025, remains a trending figure online due to alleged connections with high-ranking political and police officials. His name was mentioned during a media briefing by General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, which also linked him to Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.
The businessman has faced scrutiny in the past for questionable business dealings, including a controversial R360 million SAPS tender allegedly awarded without proper qualifications. This deal had reportedly been flagged by slain whistleblower Babita Deokaran.
Authorities say the case will be moved to the Johannesburg High Court, with additional charges from Pretoria West and Lyttleton expected to be consolidated.
During police raids at his properties, officials uncovered unlicensed firearms, luxury goods including a Rolex watch, and, in a recent raid, Matlala was allegedly found with a cellphone in his prison cell.
Adding fuel to the fire, controversial blogger Musa Khawula has linked Matlala to the unsolved murder of DJ Sumbody, resurfacing a post that has since gone viral.
While Matlala remains in custody, his wife and the other accused have been granted bail. The case has been postponed to August.
