Cat Matlala Denied Bail by the High Court

Vusumzi Cat Matlala denied bail by the high court photo supplied

By Phindi Mjonondwane
NPA Regional Spokesperson

Vusimuzi Cat Matlala’s bail appeal was dismissed by the High Court of South Africa, Gauteng Division in Johannesburg.

The dismissal comes after Matlala was denied bail at the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court and appealed the decision in the High Court.

The NPA welcomes the judgement and is of the view that the court made the right decision in denying Matlala bail, considering the severity of the charges and the risk to public safety and law enforcement officers, including the investigating officer and the prosecutors involved in the matter.

Matlala faces charges of Attempted Murder, Conspiracy to Commit Murder, Fraud and Attempting to Defeat the Ends of Justice.

The charges emanate from alleged events that occurred in Johannesburg between 12 and 17 October 2023, during which the accused allegedly conspired to kill Tebogo Thobejane.

The State further alleges that they opened fire on Thobejane and two other complainants.

It is also alleged that the accused laundered over R120 000 linked to the murder plot and submitted a fraudulent invoice in an attempt to conceal the origin of the funds and mislead the court.

The Court dismissed the appeal because it found that Matlala poses a flight risk, represents a danger to witnesses and the community and that the State’s case against him is substantial.

Consequently, releasing him would be contrary to the interests of justice.