WATCH: Matlala returns to Madlanga Commission’s hot seat

Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala in a pensive mood at the Madlanga Commission ahead of continuing his testimony.

Alleged criminal tycoon Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala returns to the Madlanga Commission on Monday, facing a fresh round of questions after a last-minute postponement exposed a mountain of evidence still to be considered.

Matlala’s testimony was halted last week to give him time to consult his legal team after his appearance before the commission was unexpectedly brought forward from September.

His advocate, Annelene van den Heever, told the commission the defence had been overwhelmed by the volume of material delivered at short notice.

“Last count, and that was before we got a further email last night, the volume was far exceeding 2,000 pages,” she said.

Van den Heever added that the defence and evidence leaders had only received the bundles of information the previous afternoon.

Matlala had also yet to file a supplementary affidavit addressing questions from evidence leaders. He is expected to tackle those outstanding issues when proceedings resume.

During his earlier appearance, Matlala read from his statement but declined to answer questions concerning matters before the courts, including his controversial Medicare24 Tshwane contract with the South African Police Service (SAPS).

However, Matlala did acknowledge meetings with businessmen at the home of the late taxi boss Jonathan Msibi, who has been linked to the alleged Big Five Cartel.

Pressed on whether he met them at Msibi’s residence, he again answered: “Yes, that's correct.”

The commission is expected to press him further on those meetings on Monday.