State alleges it has compelling proof of Matlala using a fake Eswatini identity

BAIL HEARING

- SIMON MAJADIBODU

THE State is alleging that controversial businessman Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala used a false Eswatini identity under the surname “Dlamini” as it seeks to oppose his bail.

Matlala was back in the Alexandra Magistrates Court yesterday, where his bail application is being heard.

Matlala is accused of orchestrating a 2023 hit on his ex-girlfriend, actress Tebogo Thobejane. The State is opposing his release, flagging discrepancies in his affidavit — including claims that he made multiple trips to Eswatini on foot and used a false Eswatini identity under the surname “Dlamini; which was linked to his old cellphone number.

The State referred to a Section 212 affidavit from Home Affairs, attached to Matlala’s original bail affidavit. According to the affidavit, a Home Affairs official verified Matlala’s border movements against three data systems.

Records show that the applicant crossed the Oshoek port of entry on three occasions:

® February 11, 2024: Departed South Africa on foot.