Alleged crime kingpin Vusimuzi Matlala swaps luxury mansions for maximum security cell

JOHANNESBURG - Alleged crime kingpin Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala has swapped his luxury mansions for a maximum-security cell, sharing a facility with the likes of Thabo Bester and Radovan Krejčíř, and now he’s complaining about his belongings from behind bars.

The Pretoria businessman, accused of running a web of corruption, violence and tenders, is being held at Kgosi Mampuru C-Max.

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Matlala, who was recently linked to Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu in an explosive claim by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, faces charges of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering.

Matlala, accused of plotting to kill his ex-girlfriend, laundering millions and scoring a questionable R360 million South African Police Service (SAPS) tender, was arrested after what police described as a high-profile investigation.

Once known for his mansions, luxury cars and flamboyant glasses, he now wears a yellow jumpsuit, lives in a tiny cell and uses a stainless-steel toilet that doubles as a sink,  just like Bester and Krejčíř.

He raised concerns about his assets overnight during a surprise raid, but Commissioner Samuel Thobakgale said his options are limited for now.

“He knows how he needs to channel the request. The same with Thabo Bester, he made a request, and the last time I was here, he submitted something to me in writing.”

Matlala remains under heavy guard at one of Africa's most secure prisons, awaiting his next court appearance on Friday.