The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) has formally requested the transfer of alleged crime kingpin Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala from the Bongweni super maximum correctional facility in Kokstad, KwaZulu Natal, to Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre within the next 96 hours.
The request, announced on Tuesday, is aimed at ensuring Matlala’s attendance at his upcoming court appearance scheduled for 20 April.
Matlala is currently in custody alongside several co accused. He faces multiple counts of attempted murder linked to an alleged plot against his former girlfriend, socialite Tebogo Thobejane, as well as additional conspiracy related charges.
The 49 year old businessman, widely described as a tenderpreneur, has secured extensive government contracts in health and security services. He has repeatedly been linked in media reports to alleged organised crime structures, including claims of involvement in a so called “Big 5” cartel.
He is also implicated in separate corruption and fraud investigations tied to irregular state tenders, including a controversial R360 million SAPS Medicare 24 contract.
Matlala was transferred to the Kokstad facility late last year following his detention in the C Max section of Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre, where correctional authorities had raised serious security concerns.
The latest development has sparked widespread reaction on social media, with many questioning both the timing and intent behind the proposed transfer.
Critics have raised concerns that relocating Matlala to Pretoria could potentially give him easier access to communication channels or influence networks. These concerns are heightened by previous reports that he was found in possession of a cellphone while detained at Kgosi Mampuru.
Neither Matlala’s legal team nor correctional authorities have issued official confirmation on whether the transfer will proceed.
His trial is currently scheduled to begin in July.