Vusi 'Cat' Matlala transferred to a super-maximum facility in KZN
Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala has been transferred from Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre to eBongweni Correctional Facility.
Image: Oupa Mokoena / Independent Newspapers
Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, a controversial figure entangled in allegations of criminal cartel involvement and a murder charge, has been transferred from Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre (C-Max) in Pretoria to the country’s only super-maximum prison, eBongweni Correctional Facility, in Kokstad, KwaZulu-Natal.
This shift was confirmed by the Department of Correctional Services spokesperson, Singabakho Nxumalo and took effect on December 21.
Nxumalo stated that the transfer falls within standard operational procedures. "The transfer of remand detainees and sentenced offenders between correctional facilities is a standard operational practice, informed by a range of considerations, primarily security, safety, operational requirements, and effective inmate management across the correctional system," he said.
“In terms of section 6 of the Correctional Services Act, the national commissioner of correctional services is legally empowered to detain an offender or remand detainee at any correctional centre, notwithstanding the wording of a warrant. This provision exists to enable the department to respond appropriately to security assessments and operational demands,” added Nxumalo.
Nxumalo reassured the public that all detainees will continue to receive appropriate care, and efforts are made to ensure that court appearances and legal processes proceed without hindrance.
"Where enhanced security measures are required, these considerations take precedence. It must be emphasised that the transfer of a detainee does not prejudice their legal rights or access to services."
Given the sensitive nature of security-related decisions, Nxumalo said the department has opted to refrain from public discussions or comments regarding the specific security factors that led to Matlala's transfer.
Matlala, who finds himself at the centre of public scrutiny due to alleged connections to fraudulent transactions in the R2 billion 'looting' of Tembisa Hospital, had been arrested in April for allegedly orchestrating the attempted murder of his ex-girlfriend, actress Tebogo Thobejane.
He remains in custody after being denied bail and is believed to play a key role in manipulations related to SAPS tenders benefiting criminal syndicates allegedly supported by high-ranking political and police figures.
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