Businessman Vusimuzi Matlala denies involvement in alleged assassination plot during bail application
The Alexandra Magistrate’s Court has reserved its judgment on the bail application of Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.
Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers
Businessman Vusimuzi Cat Matlala will remain behind bars until next week, after the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court reserved judgment in his bail application until September 17.
The Pretoria-based businessman is accused of allegedly ordering a hit on his ex-girlfriend, actress Tebogo Thobejane, in December 2023.
Matlala, 49, faces charges of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering linked to the alleged assassination attempt on Thobejane.
On Monday Matlala's lawyer said that he cannot be linked to all charges brought against him and that the arresting officers tampered with his electronic devices 'in a bid to pin him with false charges'.
However, the State rejected these claims, saying investigators have collected strong evidence.
Prosecutor Elise le Roux read the lead investigator's affidavit in court.
“I consider it unnecessary to discuss the evidence in detail, so I have to say that a warrant of arrest was issued by a magistrate... that showed prima facie evidence against the applicant.
“The evidence against the applicant is circumstantial. As is the case in all contract killings, the person who orders the killing will always remain in the background,” said Le Roux.
The defence told the court that the state had failed to produce direct evidence, such as fingerprints or ballistics, linking Matlala to the alleged hit.
Matlala's lawyer, Laurence Hodes, accused the State of basing their evidence on speculation.
"There are no fingerprints or any other physical evidence or proof linking my client to the crimes. These charges are based on pure speculation," argued Hodes.