Controversial South African businessman, Vusumuzi “Cat” Matlala has claimed that Thobeka Thobejane, the South African actress and socialite who he is accused of trying to kill, sought his protection after the alleged hit on her.
Thobejane, who is Matlala’s ex-concubine, has claimed that she has been living in fear ever since a hit attempt on her left her hospitalised and a friend seriously injured in June 2023.
Matlala, who owns CAT Protection Services company, alleged that Thobejane contacted him from October 2023 until around June 2024 for assistance.
Matlala said he only learned of the shooting through social and mainstream media, claiming he was unaware of the incident when it occurred.
“This particular victim contacted me several times after the shooting, asking for my help and protection, as I am in the security industry,” he said during a bail hearing on Tuesday.
“She reached out from October 2023 until around June 2024.”
On Monday, the court heard that the actress left the country due to ongoing trauma and safety concerns following the attempt on her life.
“Ms Thobejane fled the country out of fear for her life and she communicated with the investigating team, last night, indicating that she still fears for her life, that’s why she will not return to South Africa. So her life, has also changed forever after the shooting incident.”
Matlala has denied having a role in the shooting and claims the state is trying to frame him for the crime.
During the hearing, he testified through his lawyer that he had no motive, as their relationship ended three years prior.
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