Matlala to remain behind bars as all charges against him are centralised for trial

Controversial figure Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala will have to remain behind bars as all the cases against him are centralised for trial.

On Monday, the Johannesburg High Court dismissed Matlala’s bail appeal, saying his release would not serve the interest of justice.

ALSO READ: 'Cat' Matlala bail appeal denied: NPA welcomes High Court judgment

The alleged crime boss is facing attempted murder charges for allegedly calling a hit on his socialite girlfriend, Tebogo Thobejane, in October 2023.

Matlala has 10 other attempted murder charges against him for hits on people, including taxi boss Joe Sibanyoni in August 2022 and Seunkie Mokubung, known as DJ Wetties, in January 2024.

All those cases will have to be centralised ahead of his trial, which he will attend while incarcerated.

Meanwhile, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has welcomed the high court’s dismissal of Matlala’s bail but noted that more work lies ahead.

"The judgment proves once more that, as the NPA, we cannot rest on our laurels but must continue working tirelessly to ensure that justice prevails," said spokesperson Phindin Mjonondwane.

Matlala will return to the Alexandra Magistrates Court in November, where the centralisation is expected to be finalised.