Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala and four co-accused appeared in Johannesburg High Court on charges of attempted murder. Their lawyer, Annelene van der Heever, accused the state of withholding requested affidavits and cellphone evidence. The case was postponed to May 7.
Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala, along with four others, faced Johannesburg High Court on charges of attempting to murder socialite Tebogo Thobejane, businessman Joe Sibanyoni, and music producer Seunkie Mokubung. Matlala’s lawyer, Annelene van der Heever, claimed the state deliberately frustrated the defence by not disclosing evidence requested over a month ago. This included affidavits and expert reports on downloads from Matlala’s cellphone. The team argued that such delays prejudice their client amid public allegations without evidence. The court postponed the matter to May 7 for further disclosures. Van der Heever stated: “Everybody in court today knows what has been said about my client. Very unfairly so, I believe, and the longer this matter has been dragged out, that black cloud hangs over him. How do you protect somebody’s right when everyone out there with no evidence makes these allegations? You have a right to protect yourself, and you have a right to do so speedily.” The legal team views the state’s actions as an attempt to delay proceedings.
