Testimony before the Madlanga Commission has disclosed that suspected criminal Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala is said to have handed over R150,000 in connection with an unsuccessful bid to assassinate his former partner, actress Tebogo Thobejane.
The incident in 2023 resulted in injuries to Thobejane and left another woman permanently paralysed.
On 30 October 2025, Witness C informed the commission that Matlala orchestrated the funds in two parts: R50,000 several days prior to the 12 July 2023 gunfire, followed by R100,000 immediately afterward, routed via a company account controlled by Nthabiseng Nzama—daughter of co-accused Floyd Tiego Mahusela.
Authorities detained Matlala in a prominent Midrand raid in May 2025, where he faced formal accusations of attempted murder, plotting to murder, and money laundering tied to the 2023 scheme targeting Thobejane.
His spouse, Tsakani, along with three additional individuals, are charged with attempted murder, conspiracy to murder, and money laundering.
The shooting took place on the N1 near Sandton in Johannesburg, with Thobejane sustaining a bullet wound to her foot and a companion enduring a spine injury that caused paralysis. Citing persistent security threats, Thobejane has since left South Africa.
The inquiry further uncovered allegations connecting Matlala to drug dealing, loan sharking, and the vanishing of businessman Jerry Boshoga.
He had once obtained a R360 million contract with SAPS, which was subsequently revoked, and is accused of bankrolling political efforts.
Matlala has seen multiple bail requests rejected due to fears he might flee or endanger others.
The case involving him and his alleged accomplices has been adjourned until 11 November 2025.
