Subpoenaed ‘Cat’ Matlala’s Commission testimony delayed amid intense public interest

Pretoria – Alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala will no longer testify before the Madlanga Commission on Tuesday, with his appearance postponed to a date yet to be announced due to heightened public and media interest.

Instead, his legal representative will attend the proceedings.

Matlala, a businessman whose company was awarded a controversial R228 million SAPS healthcare tender in 2024, is currently in custody facing 25 criminal charges, including fraud, corruption and attempted murder.

[BREAKING] Alleged cartel boss Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala will not appear before the Madlanga Commission on Tuesday. This is despite the inquiry issuing a subpoena for him to appear. Evidence leaders asked for his appearance to be deferred to a later date. Tune in to #eNCA, channel… pic.twitter.com/l3k6hcpq1d

— eNCA (@eNCA) July 6, 2026

He is also reportedly engaged in plea negotiations with the National Prosecuting Authority.

The commission has heard allegations that Matlala was a key figure in a powerful organised crime syndicate that infiltrated senior SAPS structures through corruption and financial inducements.

Several senior police officials have been implicated in testimony, with claims of receiving loans, gifts or leaking confidential information to protect his interests.

MADLANGA COMMISSION | The commission has confirmed that attempted murder accused Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, who had been subpoenaed to appear tomorrow, will no longer testify. Evidence leaders requested that his appearance be deferred to a later date. pic.twitter.com/CuER94vwVl

— SABC News (@SABCNews) July 6, 2026

However, these allegations have not been tested in court and remain subject to the commission’s findings.

Evidence before the commission has also linked Matlala to alleged political influence, irregular police contracts, and claims that he orchestrated the murder of a Transnet whistleblower and benefited from an unlawful agreement allowing private security vehicles to use police-style blue lights. These allegations also remain unproven.