Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala is a South African businessman whose name has become widely known due to his involvement in high-profile government tenders and serious criminal allegations. Born in 1976 and originally from Mpumalanga, Matlala built a lavish lifestyle in Gauteng before facing charges of attempted murder, money laundering, and conspiracy. He is married to Tsakani Matlala, who has also been linked to his legal troubles. This article explores his age, background, wife, state of origin, and nationality—giving you a full picture of the man behind the headlines.
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Vusimuzi Cat Matlala Biography
Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala was born on November 3, 1976, in Mpumalanga, South Africa. He is 49 years old as of 2025. He later moved to Gauteng, where he built his business empire. His early life and education are not well documented, and there are no public records showing formal qualifications.
Matlala began his career by securing small contracts with local municipalities and hospitals. He operated through companies like Falcon Cat Trading, Black AK Trading, and Cor Kabeng Trading. These businesses helped him gain access to government tenders, especially in the health sector.
His biggest breakthrough came in 2024 when his company, Medicare24 Tshwane District, received a R360 million contract from the South African Police Service (SAPS) to provide health services. This deal made him a well-known figure in South Africa’s business and political circles.
Matlala became famous for his luxurious lifestyle. He owned expensive cars, including a Rolls-Royce Wraith, rented mansions in Pretoria, and wore designer clothes. He also ran a private security company called Cat VIP Protection, which provided convoy services for his family.
However, his success came with serious allegations. He was accused of siphoning R50 million from the SAPS contract. He was also linked to the assassination of whistleblower Babita Deokaran and a failed hit on actress Tebogo Thobejane. These cases led to charges of attempted murder, money laundering, and conspiracy.
Matlala is married to Tsakani Matlala, who was also arrested in connection with the money laundering case. She was later released on bail but remains under strict conditions.
Currently, Matlala is held at Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre in Pretoria. He dropped his bail application in May 2025 due to safety concerns. Authorities have classified him as a high-risk inmate.
Despite the controversies, Matlala’s story reflects how business and politics often mix in South Africa. His rise through government tenders and sudden fall due to criminal charges has drawn national attention.
Vusimuzi Cat Matlala Early Life & Background
Born in 1976 in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa, Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s early life remains shrouded in mystery. Public records offer little insight into his upbringing, family background, or educational history. What is known is that he later relocated to Gauteng, a move that would prove pivotal in shaping his future as a controversial business figure. His transition from rural Mpumalanga to the urban sprawl of Gauteng coincided with South Africa’s post-apartheid economic restructuring, where government tenders became a lucrative avenue for emerging entrepreneurs. Matlala’s ability to navigate this landscape—despite lacking formal qualifications—suggests a reliance on informal networks and political proximity. His early associations with municipal figures and hospital administrators hint at a strategic positioning that would later evolve into full-blown tenderpreneurship. While many tender tycoons boast academic credentials, Matlala’s ascent appears rooted in street-smart maneuvering and opportunistic alliances. This lack of transparency in his formative years has fueled speculation about the origins of his wealth and the nature of his early influences, making his biography all the more enigmatic.
Vusimuzi Cat Matlala Career Beginnings
Vusimuzi Cat Matlala’s career started with small government tenders. He used companies such as Falcon Cat Trading, Black AK Trading, and Cor Kabeng Trading to enter the business scene. These companies were involved in supplying goods and services to hospitals and municipalities. Despite having no formal academic background in business or finance, he managed to build useful relationships with local officials. His business model was centered around gaining public contracts, and many believe he relied heavily on political connections to stay ahead of competitors. Early deals were modest, but they gave him access to networks that would later fund bigger opportunities. His ability to secure contracts consistently raised questions about how these tenders were awarded and the transparency behind them. These early ventures laid the foundation for what would eventually become a controversial but successful career in South Africa’s business circles.
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Vusimuzi Cat Matlala Rise to Prominence
Matlala’s leap into the national spotlight came with the massive R360 million health services contract awarded to his firm, Medicare24 Tshwane District, by the South African Police Service (SAPS). This deal marked a turning point in his career. Suddenly, he became known not just in business circles but among top government insiders. His lifestyle changed visibly. He acquired a Rolls-Royce Wraith, shopped for luxury fashion items, and underwent cosmetic procedures to maintain a polished appearance. He also formed Cat VIP Protection—a security company that transported his family in high-end convoys across Pretoria. His ability to market himself as a successful and untouchable entrepreneur helped him gain influence. However, the scale and speed of his success raised concerns. Many critics questioned the fairness of the SAPS tender and the role of political favoritism. While Matlala portrayed the image of a self-made mogul, suspicions of backdoor dealings and inflated pricing followed him into the public eye.
Vusimuzi Cat Matlala Controversies & Legal Troubles
As his empire grew, so did the controversies. Matlala was accused of diverting R50 million from the SAPS health contract for personal gain. Investigations linked him to the murder of Babita Deokaran, a whistleblower who flagged corruption within Gauteng’s Department of Health. He was further implicated in an attempted assassination of popular actress Tebogo Thobejane. These incidents marked the beginning of his legal downfall. He was charged with attempted murder, conspiracy, and money laundering. His arrest in May 2025 shocked many, as the glitzy businessman who once rolled in luxury was now facing serious prison time. His wife, Tsakani, was also arrested but later released under strict bail conditions. The media frenzy around his case continues to grow, and he has become a symbol of corruption for many South Africans tired of watching the politically connected evade justice. The details emerging from court documents have only deepened public distrust of how tenders are awarded and protected.
Vusimuzi Cat Matlala Political Connections & Allegations
Matlala’s story is incomplete without mentioning his alleged political ties. Reports suggest he had close relationships with Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, among other influential figures. Investigators believe these connections helped shield him from early scrutiny and allowed him to operate his businesses without much interference. Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi even described Matlala as being at the center of a powerful syndicate controlling sensitive tenders. Allegations include using political influence to manipulate law enforcement and sabotage cases against him. Critics argue that his access to inside information and privileged contacts undermines the justice system. Although no formal charges have been filed against the ministers allegedly involved, the investigations have stirred public debate about political accountability. Matlala’s case has exposed gaps in transparency and ethical conduct, especially in tender processes involving large sums of public money. As the case unfolds, it’s likely more names will come to light and the network behind his rise will be closely examined.
Vusimuzi Cat Matlala Personal Life
Vusimuzi Matlala is married to Tsakani Matlala, a woman who found herself entangled in his legal battles. In May 2025, she was arrested for her alleged involvement in a failed assassination plot targeting actress Tebogo Thobejane. Though she was released on R20,000 bail, she remains under strict conditions, including surrendering her passport and avoiding key witnesses. Little is known about their home life, but their public appearances often showcased wealth and prestige. They lived in upscale rented mansions and were regularly seen with private security convoys. Since the arrest, the family has mostly retreated from the spotlight. Observers note that Tsakani played a central role in his businesses, but this involvement has led to increased scrutiny. The case has affected their image, with many questioning the true source of their wealth and lifestyle. Matlala’s family now faces heavy public and media pressure as investigators dig deeper into his business and personal affairs.
Vusimuzi Cat Matlala Current Status
Vusimuzi Matlala is currently incarcerated at the Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre in Pretoria. He withdrew his bail application in May 2025, citing safety threats both inside and outside prison. Officials have labeled him a high-risk inmate due to his criminal charges and the high-profile nature of his case. His time in detention marks a sharp contrast to his former luxurious lifestyle. Where once he enjoyed high-end shopping and private security, he now lives under constant monitoring. Attempts to communicate with external allies have reportedly been restricted by the authorities. His legal team continues to battle for favorable conditions, but the public sentiment leans heavily against him. Many South Africans view his incarceration as a sign of progress in fighting corruption. However, skeptics worry that his connections could lead to reduced accountability. As of now, he awaits further court proceedings that will determine his fate and potentially reveal more details behind the allegations.
Vusimuzi Cat Matlala Net Worth, Assets & Lifestyle
Before his arrest, Matlala’s estimated net worth ranged between R100 million and R150 million. His income largely came from government contracts, particularly the SAPS health services deal. He invested in high-end assets, including several luxury vehicles, private homes, and designer fashion. The most notable was his Rolls-Royce Wraith, a car that became synonymous with his flashy persona. He also ran Cat VIP Protection, a private firm providing security convoys for his family, contributing to his image as a top-tier entrepreneur. However, following his legal troubles, authorities initiated asset freezes and began investigating possible liquidation of his companies. Financial records are now under review to assess how public funds were used. Banks and regulators have flagged multiple suspicious transactions, and his wealth has become the focus of ongoing probes. What was once a story of business success is now being dissected for fraud. The unfolding evidence could drastically reduce his estate, depending on court outcomes.
What is Vusimuzi Cat Matlala Age and Date of Birth?
Vusimuzi Cat Matlala Age is 49 years old as of 2025. He was born on November 3, 1976, in Mpumalanga, South Africa.
What is Vusimuzi Cat Matlala Nationality?
Vusimuzi Cat Matlala Nationality is South African. He was born in Mpumalanga, South Africa, and built his business empire in Gauteng.
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Who is Vusimuzi Cat Matlala Wife?
Vusimuzi Cat Matlala Wife is Tsakani Matlala. She gained public attention after being arrested in May 2025 for her alleged role in a failed assassination attempt involving actress Tebogo Thobejane. Tsakani was later released on R20,000 bail under strict conditions, including surrendering her passport and avoiding contact with witnesses.
Vusimuzi Cat Matlala Wikipedia
- Business Mogul – Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala is a South African businessman known for winning large government health tenders.
- Birth Details – Born on November 3, 1976, in Mpumalanga; later moved to Gauteng for business growth.
- Tenderpreneur – He gained attention through companies like Medicare24 and Falcon Cat Trading involved in public health contracts.
- VIP Lifestyle – Known for driving a Rolls-Royce Wraith and using Cat VIP Protection services for family security.
- Criminal Charges – Matlala faces charges including attempted murder, conspiracy, and laundering related to SAPS contracts.
- Whistleblower Link – Allegedly linked to Babita Deokaran’s assassination after she reported corruption in government health tenders.
- Celebrity Incident – Implicated in a failed assassination attempt targeting South African actress Tebogo Thobejane.
- Spouse – Married to Tsakani Matlala, arrested in connection with a conspiracy charge in 2025.
- Incarceration – Held at Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre; dropped bail due to safety risks.
- Estimated Wealth – Before arrest, his net worth ranged between R100 million to R150 million from public sector deals.
Vusimuzi Cat Matlala Profile Table
| Profile | Information |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Vusimuzi Matlala |
| Age | 49 years old |
| Date of Birth | November 3, 1976 |
| Career | Businessman, Tenderpreneur |
| Net Worth | Estimated R100–150 million |
| Wife | Tsakani Matlala |
| Children | Not publicly known |
| Parents | Not known |
| Religion | Not known |
| State of Origin | Mpumalanga, South Africa |
| Armamata | Not known |
| Education | No formal academic records available |
| Nationality | South African |