‘Why did you send it?’ Matlala grilled over Maumela’s R4m payment to late taxi boss Msibi

Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala, the attempted murder accused and businessman, testified that profits from successful contracts were shared between him and businessman Morgan Maumela, even though there was no written agreement between them. Matlala claimed he was under investigation by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) in connection with the Health Department's tenders, but was unable to specify the alleged offense.

He maintained his innocence, stating that his legal predicament does not imply guilt. Matlala explained that his friendship with Hangwani Maumela, another businessman, began around 2015 or 2016, and evolved into a financial and business partnership. The two reportedly contributed funds to meet medical-supply RFQs, with profits divided equally.

However, Advocate Mahlape Sello, the evidence leader, questioned Matlala's explanation, suggesting he was evasive. Matlala later revealed that businessman Steve Motsumi had loaned him R5 million in 2024, which he used to fund hospital renovations at Pretoria West College. This loan was fully repaid in 2025 and was separate from a proposed R20 million investment that did not go through.