Matlala’s co-accused ‘coughed blood’ as police searched his home after fatal shooting

JOHANNESBURG – The Johannesburg High Court heard dramatic testimony that one of Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s co-accused was coughing up blood while police searched his home shortly after a fatal shooting linked to the ongoing criminal case.

The evidence emerged as the State continued presenting witnesses in the high-profile trial involving Matlala and several co-accused, who face charges including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, fraud and money laundering. All of the accused have pleaded not guilty.

Court hears about police search

During testimony, a State witness described how police officers conducted a search at the home of one of Matlala’s co-accused following a fatal shooting connected to the investigation.

The witness told the court that the accused appeared to be in poor physical condition during the search and was allegedly coughing up blood.

The circumstances surrounding his medical condition formed part of the evidence presented before the court.

Evidence under cross-examination

The defence questioned the witness’s recollection of events, probing the timing of the police search and the observations made at the property.

Lawyers also challenged aspects of the witness’s account, suggesting that some details may have been inaccurate or based on assumptions.

However, the witness maintained his version of events throughout cross-examination.

State continues building its case

Prosecutors are relying on witness testimony, electronic evidence and other documentary material to support allegations that Matlala and his co-accused were involved in a series of violent criminal acts.

The trial has heard evidence relating to alleged attempts on the lives of actress Tebogo Thobejane, businessman Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni, and music producer Seunkie Mokubung, also known as DJ Vettys.

The accused deny all allegations against them.

Defence disputes allegations

Matlala’s legal team and lawyers representing the co-accused continue to challenge the credibility of the State’s witnesses and the reliability of the evidence presented.

The defence maintains that the prosecution has not established a sufficient link between the accused and the offences alleged.

Further cross-examination of witnesses is expected as the trial progresses.

Trial to continue

The Johannesburg High Court is expected to hear additional testimony before the matter proceeds further.

No findings have yet been made regarding the guilt of Matlala or any of his co-accused.

As with all criminal proceedings, the accused remain presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The case has been postponed for the continuation of evidence, with more witnesses expected to testify when proceedings resume.