Johannesburg – South African actress and socialite Tebogo Thobejane has reportedly fled the country and gone into hiding, following a brazen attempt on her life allegedly orchestrated by her ex-boyfriend, controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.
During the continuation of Matlala’s bail application at the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court, state prosecutors confirmed that Tebogo Thobejane had left South Africa, citing fears for her life. The revelation followed chilling details of a 2023 shooting on the N1 highway near Sandton, where Tebogo Thobejane was wounded in the foot. A female passenger in her vehicle was shot in the back and has since been left paralysed.
“It is a fact that Tebogo Thobejane fled the country out of fear for her life,” the prosecution stated in court. “She communicated with the investigating team that she still fears for her safety and that’s why she will not return. So her life has also changed forever.”
The Accused: Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala
Matlala, 49, faces multiple serious charges, including:
- Attempted murder
- Conspiracy to commit murder
- Money laundering
He appeared in court under heavy police guard, shackled, and flanked by armed officers. Four co-accused, including his wife Tsakani Matlala (currently out on bail), are implicated in the same case.
The court heard that Matlala allegedly orchestrated the attack on Tebogo Thobejane after the breakdown of their relationship. He has denied all charges, labeling them “baseless” and claiming no ongoing involvement with the actress since their separation in 2021.
Matlala’s application for bail was denied on 17 September 2025, with the court ruling that he poses a flight risk, is capable of witness interference, and remains a threat to public safety.
Cellphone Found in Prison, Further Violations
In a separate revelation, prison officials confirmed that Matlala was found in possession of a mobile phone while in custody at Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre. This discovery raised concerns about ongoing efforts to interfere with the case from inside prison walls.
Authorities are now probing whether the device was used to communicate with accomplices or to influence state witnesses.
Tebogo Thobejane’s Trauma and New Life in Exile
Since the attack, Thobejane has spoken candidly about the lasting impact of the shooting on her physical and emotional well-being. In July, she revealed that she suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and remains under constant fear for her life.
“I’m not safe. I don’t trust easily. I’ve had to take extreme security measures just to survive,” Thobejane shared in an emotional interview. “The fear doesn’t go away.”
Sources indicate that she is now living abroad, with Dubai reported as her current location. She has not returned to South Africa since the shooting and has no immediate plans to do so.
In response to her ordeal, Thobejane recently launched the Botlhale Foundation, a non-profit initiative aimed at combating gender-based violence (GBV), digital abuse, and supporting survivors of trauma.
“My experience forced me to find a bigger purpose. I want to use my voice to help others who feel voiceless,” she said at the foundation’s launch.
Broader Implications and Allegations
Matlala’s name has also surfaced in connection with other controversies, including a R360 million SAPS health services tender under investigation. Media reports have linked him to alleged corruption networks involving senior police officers and government officials. However, Matlala maintains his innocence in all matters currently under scrutiny.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has confirmed its intention to centralise multiple dockets connected to Matlala and his associates, citing a “network of criminal conduct that crosses jurisdictional lines.”
What’s Next?
With bail denied and the case growing in complexity, Matlala remains in custody awaiting trial. The court is expected to resume proceedings in late October, following the consolidation of the various related cases.
Tebogo Thobejane, meanwhile, remains in exile, her acting career and public life on indefinite hold. Her representatives have confirmed she is cooperating with investigators remotely, but is unlikely to return to South Africa until assurances of safety are in place.
