Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala is a name that has become synonymous with controversy, wealth, state contracts, and legal peril in South Africa.
His rise to prominence, business empire, and subsequent legal troubles provide a dramatic, cautionary tale about power, influence, and alleged criminality. Here’s a comprehensive look into his life, career, and the allegations he’s facing.
Early Life and Background
Very little is publicly known about Matlala’s early life, education, or family roots. What is clear is that he built a business empire largely through private security and health service companies, positioning himself as a powerful figure in sectors closely tied to state contracts.
Matlala is often referred to as a “tenderpreneur” — a business person who makes large sums by securing government tenders.
Business Interests and Rise to Power
Private Security Sector
Matlala established several security-related companies under his control, including Cat Protection and Security, Cat VIP Protection, and others. These companies have been central to his business identity and have allowed him to build influence across government circles.
Healthcare Procurement
One of his most significant ventures is Medicare24 Tshwane District, a company that provides medical services. In 2024, Medicare24 secured a massive R360 million contract with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to provide health services. However, the contract was later canceled amid serious procurement and corruption allegations.
Trading and Suppliers
Matlala also directs companies like Black AK Trading & Suppliers and Cor Kabeng Trading & Suppliers, which have been linked to hospital supply contracts.
Network of Influence
Reports suggest Matlala has used his wealth and businesses to cultivate political and police connections. These connections have drawn scrutiny, especially as investigations into his activities have intensified.
Legal Troubles and Controversies
Arrests and Serious Charges
He has been arrested and charged with attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, money laundering, and more. The charges stem from an alleged plot in 2023 to assassinate his former partner, actress Tebogo Thobejane. In court, the state has argued he is a flight risk and may interfere with witnesses.
Identity and Cross-Border Issues
Allegations include Matlala holding an Eswatini identity document under the name “Dlamini.” There are claims he re-entered South Africa illegally from Eswatini, heightening concerns about his willingness to evade justice.
Regulatory Scrutiny
PSIRA (Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority) suspended 8 employees after finding irregularities in how Matlala’s security business was registered. An independent forensic investigation has been launched by PSIRA to examine these irregularities.
Prison Incidents
While in Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre, Matlala was found in possession of a mobile phone during a prison search. Authorities consider him a high-risk inmate.
Political and Criminal Syndicate Ties
He has been implicated by high-ranking officials, including KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who alleges Matlala is part of a larger syndicate. The Madlanga Commission, which investigates corruption and criminality in the justice system, has raised his name in connection with structural capture.
Wealth & Lifestyle
Matlala’s lifestyle has been ostentatious and high-profile:
- His net worth is estimated by some sources to be in the R100 – R150 million range.
- He has reportedly owned luxury items, including a Rolls-Royce Wraith and a high-value Rolex watch.
- His business network, political ties, and influence have raised serious questions about how he financed his rise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala?
He’s a South African businessman known for private security companies, health service tenders, and alleged involvement in a criminal syndicate.
What major contract did he secure?
His company Medicare24 won a R360 million contract with SAPS to provide health services, which was later canceled amid controversy.
What criminal charges does he face?
He is facing charges including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, money laundering, and defeating the ends of justice.
Why is his identity under scrutiny?
There are allegations he holds an Eswatini ID under a different name (Dlamini) and may have crossed the border illegally.
What is PSIRA’s role in his story?
PSIRA (regulator for security companies) suspended staff and launched a forensic probe into how Matlala’s Cat Protection and Security was registered.
Where is he currently held?
He is held at Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre and has been classified as a high-risk inmate.
Conclusion
Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala stands as one of the most controversial figures in recent South African public life. From his rapid rise as a tenderpreneur to his transformation into a central figure in corruption and criminal investigations, his biography reads like a thriller.
His story is a potent reminder of how money, influence, and power can collide — sometimes with dangerous, far-reaching consequences. Whether he will be held fully accountable in court remains to be seen, but for now, his legacy is wrapped up in legal battles, controversy, and a spotlight on the dark intersection of business and crime in South Africa.