Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, the businessman implicated in high-stakes police corruption, will not be transported to Parliament for his long-anticipated testimony. Instead, the Parliamentary ad hoc committee assigned to probe allegations of police infiltration has confirmed that it will relocate its hearings directly to Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre from 26 to 28 November.
The decision comes after security assessments concluded that moving Matlala could pose unnecessary risks. Parliament’s legal advisors and Correctional Services personnel inspected the facility and found adequate space, infrastructure and digital connectivity to support full-scale committee sessions inside the prison.
Matlala, who faces charges including conspiracy to commit murder, corruption, fraud and alleged involvement in organized crime networks, has become a central figure in the investigation. His name surfaced repeatedly in earlier testimonies and commissions probing systemic wrongdoing, including links to the so-called “Big Five” cartel, irregular tenders and alleged political shielding.
Earlier this year, Matlala was moved to the C-Max wing of the prison after authorities discovered a cellphone in his cell during a contraband raid. The incident raised further concerns about his access to external communication and potential influence networks operating beyond prison walls.
The committee believes Matlala’s testimony could unlock information on several unresolved allegations, from high-level police corruption to illicit tender dealings and attempted assassinations connected to business rivalries. Members have expressed that hearing his version directly, even under incarceration, is crucial to completing their mandate.
The hearings at Kgosi Mampuru are expected to involve tight security, restricted access and strict procedural management. Parliament has described the setup as unprecedented but necessary given the gravity of the matter.