Controversial businessman Vusi Cat Matlala has had his bail hearing dramatically postponed. The accused, a central figure in a web of murder and corruption allegations, will remain behind bars until the 8th of September as the State prepares its counter-arguments.
The court proceedings took a sensational twist as details emerged of clandestine communications. It was revealed that on the very day a senior police official decried the ‘capture’ of the justice system, Matlala was allegedly in contact with a fellow accused, North West businessman Mogotsi.
A Web of Corruption and Covert Communications
The timing of these secret discussions has sent shockwaves through the proceedings, directly echoing the concerns raised by KwaZulu-Natal’s top cop, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. During a now-infamous press conference, Mkhwanazi stated,
“Our justice system has been captured by criminals and questionable businessmen,” a claim that the prosecution believes is exemplified by Matlala’s own case.
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This connection paints a picture of a justice system under siege from powerful, interconnected interests.
Vusi Cat Matlala Bail Hearing Postponed Amid Corruption Claims
Matlala is no stranger to scandal. The politically-connected ‘tenderpreneur’ stands accused of orchestrating botched hits on taxi boss Joe Sibanyoni and renowned DJ Vettys, real name Seunkie Mokubung.
His business dealings are equally mired in controversy. Most notably, he was awarded a colossal R360 Million health tender by the police last June, a contract that was swiftly cancelled after public outcry. This award was granted while he was already under intense scrutiny for his alleged involvement in the multi-million-rand Tembisa Hospital graft scandal.
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Facing the music alongside him are his wife, Tsakani Matlala, and co-accused Nthabiseng Nzama, Tlego Floyd Mabusela, and Musa Kekana. The defence has launched new, unspecified allegations against the investigating team, a move that forced the presiding officer to delay the hearing. The magistrate concluded,
“The State must be afforded time to address these fresh claims made by the defence. This matter is adjourned until the 8th of September.”