Overview
- The Department of Correctional Services confirmed his transfer on 21 December from Kgosi Mampuru II in Pretoria to eBongweni super-maximum prison in Kokstad.
- Officials described the move as routine inmate management guided by security needs and enabled by Section 6 of the Correctional Services Act.
- The South African reported that a recent raid found him with a mobile phone, with the device handed to SAPS and his security classification under review.
- The department said the placement does not affect his legal rights or access to counsel, with arrangements in place to ensure court appearances proceed ahead of a January 2026 trial.
- Matlala faces charges including conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder and money laundering, has been cited by the Madlanga Commission, and was linked by the SIU to R13 million in Thembisa Hospital deals and funds tied to a R360 million SAPS tender.