'Cat' Matlala's lawyers to challenge seizure of his electronic devices

The attorney representing alleged crime boss Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala said they will apply for a trial within a trial to challenge the legality of the seizure of electronic devices and statements he made after his arrest.

Matlala’s lawyers allege that recordings obtained from his devices have been used by the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, where Matlala is a key figure.

The main trial, set to start later in the year, is expected to last 25 days.

However, the case will return to the High Court in May for possible applications to compel disclosure of information.

TIMELINE: Controversial businessman Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala in court

Matlala, his wife Tsakane, alleged hitmen Floyd Mabusela and Musa Kekana and Kekana’s daughter, Nthabiseng Nzama, face 25 charges.

These include attempted murder, defeating the ends of justice and money laundering linked to three separate incidents.

Advocate Annelene van den Heever claims information was deleted from the devices.

“Andrea Johnson, the head of IDAC [Investigating Directorate Against Corruption], gave evidence at the portfolio committee in Cape Town about the seizure. She stated under oath that her expert complained that there was information that was deleted from the phone. There’s serious controversy about what transpired regarding the device. That’s why we say we are entitled to this information.”