NPA moves to centralise seven dockets in Matlala case

ALLEGED criminal mastermind Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala appeared briefly at the Alexandra Magistrate's Court yesterday morning, as the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) moves to consolidate multiple dockets from various jurisdictions, with plans to transfer the matter to the Johannesburg High Court.

- SIMON MAJADIBODU

Matlala, 49, a businessman, was joined in court by his four co-accused, Musa Kekana, Tiego Floyd Mabusela, his wife Tsakani Matlala, and Mabusela's daughter, Nthabiseng Nzama.

He faces charges of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering.

The charges relate to the 2023 shooting of his ex-girlfriend, actress and socialite Tebogo Thobejane, on the N1 highway near Sandton.

Thobejane, known for her role in Muvhango, was shot in the foot during the incident. A female passenger in the vehicle suffered a severe spinal injury and has since been left paralysed.

Matlala was previously denied bail during his appearance in September.

Magistrate Syta Prinsloo previously ruled he had failed to demonstrate exceptional circumstances justifying his release, adding that he may pose a flight risk.