Alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala has launched a fresh legal push to get out of Kokstad’s eBongweni Super Maximum Correctional Centre, South Africa’s highest-security prison.

In the Johannesburg High Court on Thursday, Matlala’s legal team asked the court to step in after he was transferred to eBongweni in December. The matter was raised during pre-trial proceedings involving Matlala, his wife Tsakane Matlala and three co-accused.

What Matlala is Accused of

Matlala and the other accused face 25 charges, including 11 counts of attempted murder linked to alleged “hits” targeting three people. One of the alleged targets is socialite Tebogo Thobejane.

The court also dealt with disclosures made by the state to the defence ahead of the trial.

How the Transfer Happened

The Department of Correctional Services has said Matlala was moved from the Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre’s C-Max section in Pretoria to eBongweni in Kokstad on 21 December 2025.

In its public statement, the department described transfers between correctional centres as routine, guided by “security, safety, operational requirements and effective inmate management”. It added that the National Commissioner is empowered to decide where a remand detainee is held under Section 6 of the Correctional Services Act.

Officials also said a transfer does not limit an accused person’s legal rights or access to services, including court appearances and legal consultations.

What Happens Next

Acting Judge William Karim encouraged Matlala’s lawyers to file an urgent application to have him moved to a closer facility. The case has been postponed to next week, giving prosecutors time to confirm the facts around the decision to send him to eBongweni.

For now, Correctional Services has said it will not discuss the security considerations behind the transfer.