Judge William Karam showed clear frustration during the latest hearing in the Cat Matlala attempted murder case on Thursday, 26 February 2026. The Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg postponed the matter yet again due to outstanding evidence from the state. This delay affects pretrial proceedings for Matlala and his four co-accused.


The Cat Matlala attempted murder case involves serious allegations tied to multiple shootings. Officials continue to address logistical hurdles, including Matlala's prison transfer.

Latest Postponement in High Court

Defence lawyers requested the delay because the state failed to provide certain evidence. They argued this prevented them from moving forward with the pretrial conference. The court set the new date for 18 March 2026.
Judge Karam noted the repeated changes in plans. He mentioned how earlier assurances for a pretrial shifted after breaks. This marks another setback in the ongoing Cat Matlala attempted murder case.


Advocate Annelene van den Heever, representing Matlala, accused the state of using delay tactics. The state maintains it needs time to furnish documents. These exchanges highlight tensions in the proceedings.

Charges and Case Background

Matlala and his co-accused face 25 charges. These include 11 counts of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, fraud, money laundering, and defeating the ends of justice. The allegations stem from three shooting incidents between August 2022 and January 2024.


The accused include Matlala's wife Tsakane Matlala, Musa Kekana, Tiego Floyd Mabusela, and Nthabiseng Nzama. Incidents involve attacks on Tebogo Thobejane, Joe Sibanyoni, and Seunkie “DJ Vetteys” Mokubong. The state claims the group orchestrated shootings and used fraudulent means to hide funds.


Previous delays linked to Matlala's transfer to eBongweni Supermax in Kokstad. His team complained about consultation difficulties there. The court ordered brief access periods earlier this month.

Judge Karam stated,

"The court's head is spinning from being told that the pretrial would not be conducted."

He stressed no reflection on individuals but noted the confusion. This quote captures the growing impatience in the Cat Matlala attempted murder case.

Defence teams for other accused echoed concerns over evidence. The National Prosecuting Authority confirmed the postponement for pretrial readiness.