Vusimuzi Matlala: Tenderpreneur Remains Behind Bars As Johannesburg High Court Postpones Matter

Published 6 Feb 2026 at 2:08 PM

by Byron Pillay

3 min read

Vusimuzi Matlala's latest court appearance was postponed as his legal team pushes for him to be transferred to Gauteng
His attorney argued that his transfer to a super maximum facility in Kokstad was impacting consultation time with him
The controversial tenderpreneur faces 11 charges, including conspiracy to commit murder and money laundering

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Vusimuzi Matlala and his co-accused in court — Vusimuzi Matlala and his co-accused appeared before the Johannesburg High Court. Image: Phill Magakoe
Source: Getty Images

Byron Pillay, a Briefly News journalist, has dedicated a decade to reporting on the South African political landscape, crime, and social issues. He spent 10 years working for the Northern Natal Courier before transitioning to online journalism.

GAUTENG – Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala’s legal team is bringing forth a bail application based on new information, as his ongoing legal battles continue.

Matlala's legal team indicated their plans during the alleged criminal cartel member's latest appearance on Friday, 06 February 2026. Facing 11 charges, alongside four other accused, Matlala appeared in the Johannesburg High Court as he still awaits a date for his pre-trial hearing.

Why was the matter postponed?

During his latest appearance, the matter was postponed, allowing the court to address outstanding issues around his detention before the trial could properly continue.

Matlala’s legal team has raised concerns over his transfer from the Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre (C-Max) to the super maximum eBongweni Correctional Facility in Kokstad. His lawyer, Advocate Annelene van den Heever, told the court that this greatly affected their ability to consult with her client ahead of the trial.

Acting Judge William Karam urged the lawyers representing the different clients to have a date for pre-trial readiness when they return on the 12th, to avoid further delays. Floyd, Kekana and Matlala will remain behind bars, while Tsakani and Nthabiseng remain out on bail until their next appearance.

Advocate van den Heever indicated that they would bring forth a bail application, saying it would greatly assist in their consultation efforts.

What you need to know about Matlala’s case

Tsakani Matlala was granted bail by the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court in Johannesburg in June.
Paul Mashatile confirmed that meetings were held with officials implicated in allegations of ties to Matlala.
Matlala allegedly threatened to take legal action against the SAPS officials involved in a raid at his property.
Julius Malema denied having any links to 'Cat' Matlala, but public reaction to Malema's denial was mixed.
Matlala denied being the mastermind behind the failed hit on his former girlfriend, Thobejane.
Matlala allegedly used a fake passport to cross into Eswatini on foot.

Cat appears in court in flashy clothes

With Matlala only appearing in court again in October, he won't have a chance to wear his fancy outfits.

Briefly News reported that he turned heads when he recently appeared in court wearing a Dolce & Gabbana tuxedo suit and pants.