Alleged crime boss Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala appeared in court today as prosecutors moved to consolidate 11 attempted murder cases linked to organised crime allegations. He is accused of orchestrating the 2023 attempted murder of his former partner, actress Tebogo Thobejane, and faces related conspiracy and money-laundering charges. He remains behind bars after the High Court dismissed his bail appeal on 27 October.

The state says combining the cases will streamline overlapping evidence and witness lists. Parliament is also preparing to hear Matlala’s testimony later this month at Kgosi Mampuru C Max Prison, amid continued scrutiny over alleged police corruption ties and his reported links to the so-called “Big Five” criminal network.