‘I saw him driving’: Security officer rejects defence version in ‘Cat’ Matlala case

JOHANNESBURG – A security officer testified in the Johannesburg High Court that he personally saw alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala driving a vehicle, rejecting the defence’s version of events during the ongoing attempted murder trial. Cat Matlala Back Dock

The testimony came as the State continued presenting evidence against Matlala and his co-accused, who are facing multiple charges including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, fraud and money laundering. All of the accused have pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Witness contradicts defence

Taking the witness stand, the security officer disputed the defence’s claim regarding who was driving the vehicle on the day in question.

“I saw him driving,” the witness told the court, insisting that he clearly identified Matlala behind the wheel.

The witness maintained his version during questioning, saying he had no doubt about what he observed despite challenges from the defence.

Defence challenges identification

Lawyers representing Matlala questioned the reliability of the witness’s identification, probing factors such as visibility, distance and the amount of time the witness had to observe the driver.

The defence suggested that the witness could have been mistaken and argued that his account was inconsistent with their client’s version of events.

However, the security officer stood by his testimony, rejecting suggestions that he had misidentified the accused.

State continues building its case

The prosecution is relying on witness testimony, electronic evidence, financial records and other documentary evidence to support allegations that Matlala orchestrated multiple attempted assassinations.

The trial relates to allegations involving attempted attacks on actress Tebogo Thobejane, businessman Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni and music producer Seunkie Mokubung, popularly known as DJ Vettys.

Matlala and his co-accused deny all allegations against them.

Court hears conflicting versions

The latest testimony highlighted one of the central issues the court will ultimately have to determine—whether the evidence presented by the State is credible and reliable beyond a reasonable doubt.

The defence is expected to continue cross-examining State witnesses in an effort to challenge their credibility and the accuracy of their observations.

The prosecution, meanwhile, argues that the evidence presented so far supports its case against the accused.

Trial continues

The Johannesburg High Court is expected to hear further witness testimony as the lengthy trial continues.

No findings have yet been made regarding the guilt of Matlala or any of his co-accused. The court will evaluate all the evidence before delivering judgment.

Until then, Matlala and the other accused remain presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

The matter has been postponed for the continuation of the trial, with additional witnesses expected to testify in the coming days.