Kokstad, KwaZulu-Natal – Vusimuzi Cat Matlala has been transferred to a super maximum security correctional facility in Kokstad, KwaZulu-Natal, as South African authorities tighten controls around high-risk detainees.
The Department of Correctional Services confirmed that Matlala was relocated to eBongweni Correctional Centre on 21 December 2025. He had previously been held at Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre in Pretoria, commonly known as C Max.
Correctional Services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said the transfer formed part of routine operational procedures used to manage safety and security across the prison system. He said such movements are guided by security assessments, operational needs and the effective management of inmates.
Nxumalo explained that Section 6 of the Correctional Services Act of 1998 gives the National Commissioner the authority to detain an offender or remand detainee at any correctional facility regardless of what is stated in a warrant. This allows the department to respond to changing security demands.
He said the department’s responsibility is to maintain safe and secure facilities for detainees, officials and the wider correctional environment while ensuring access to care and rehabilitation programmes. Where higher security is required, those considerations take priority. He added that transfers do not affect a detainee’s legal rights or access to services.
The department declined to provide further details on the specific reasons for Matlala’s transfer, citing the sensitive nature of security related decisions.
Matlala is a central figure in the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System. He, his wife Tsakane Matlala and co accused Musa Kekana, Tiego Floyd Mabusela and Nthabiseng Nzama face charges including conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, money laundering and attempting to defeat the ends of justice.
The charges are linked to an alleged incident in Sandton between 12 and 17 October 2023 involving his former partner, socialite and former Muvhango actress Tebogo Thobejane. Her vehicle was reportedly ambushed and shot at, leaving her injured.
Matlala also faces allegations of laundering millions of rand, including money linked to a R360 million South African Police Service health services tender. He has further been implicated in the Thembisa Hospital corruption matter, where the Special Investigating Unit said he benefited by at least R13 million through procurement deals.
Authorities expect the case to proceed to trial in January 2026.
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