Bulelwa Hoala
- Correctional Services says Matlala’s transfer was a standard security and operational measure.
- The department cited legal authority under the Correctional Services Act to move detainees when security risks arise.
- DCS stressed that the transfer does not affect legal rights and declined to comment further on security details.
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has confirmed that alleged criminal mastermind Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala was transferred from Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre (C-Max) to eBongweni Correctional Facility on Sunday, 21 December 2021.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, 30 December 2025, the department said the transfer of remand detainees is standard operational practice to ensure security, safety and effective inmate management.
“In terms of Section 6 of the Correctional Services Act, 1998 (Act No. 111 of 1998), the National Commissioner of Correctional Services is legally empowered to detain an offender or remand detainee at any correctional centre, notwithstanding the wording of a warrant. This provision exists to enable the Department to respond appropriately to security assessments and operational demands.
“The core mandate of the Department is to ensure that all correctional facilities are safe, secure, and conducive to humane detention, while enabling the delivery of rehabilitation and care programmes. In this regard, the safety and security of detainees, officials, and the broader correctional environment remain paramount. Where enhanced security measures are required, these considerations take precedence,” the statement read.
The department further emphasised that the transfer does not prejudice a detainee’s legal rights or access to services, with assurances that appropriate care continues and all court appearances and legal processes will proceed without impediment.
It added that, due to the sensitive nature of security-related decisions, it will not engage in public discussions or provide further comment on the specific reasons for the transfer.
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