Brown Mogotsi’s testimony at the Madlanga Commission has sent shockwaves through South Africa’s political and security circles. Under oath, he alleged that Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala is the person widely known as the real-life “John Wick” of Pretoria — a nickname linked to a string of targeted killings around Mamelodi. Mogotsi also hinted at affiliations between Matlala and senior political figures, including former Police Minister Bheki Cele.
These remain allegations made during sworn testimony and have not been independently verified.
Who Is the Real-Life “John Wick” of Pretoria?
The name “John Wick” — borrowed from the action-film assassin — has been used by communities, social media users, and some journalists to describe an unknown gunman believed to have carried out targeted killings around Mamelodi and Pretoria East, particularly between 2021 and 2022.
Here’s what is publicly known:
- The targets were reportedly linked to local extortion rackets, especially the so-called “Boko Haram” gang (not related to the Nigerian terror group).
- The gunman was described as precise, tactical, and professional.
- Community members framed him as a vigilante-style figure “cleaning up” criminal networks.
- A man was arrested in 2021, but many insisted he was not the true “John Wick.”
- “John Wick” has never been officially publicly identified by SAPS.
Despite the myth-like reputation, the identity of the real “John Wick” has never been officially confirmed.
What Mogotsi Told the Commission
Mogotsi delivered several explosive claims:
- He said Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala is the individual known as “John Wick.”
- He claimed that he himself is a secret state agent working with or for government structures.
- He claimed Matlala has affiliations with senior political figures, including Bheki Cele.
- He stated that a “Boko Haram” file/report, known as the Blue Report, containing a picture of Matlala as John Wick, was allegedly presented to Bheki Cele while he was still police minister, but no action was taken.
Why These Claims Matter
If proven true, the testimony touches on issues far beyond individual wrongdoing. The allegations could imply:
- Possible misuse of state resources for unlawful operations.
- Overlaps between criminal networks and political leaders.
- Potential capture or compromise of law-enforcement structures.
- Risks to witnesses and whistleblowers involved in gang-related investigations.
The Commission is expected to call additional witnesses and may request intelligence files, police documents, or other verification.
Legal and Ethical Caution
Because the claims involve violent crime, political influence, and state structures, it’s important to emphasise:
- “John Wick” has never been officially publicly identified by SAPS.
- Testimony at a commission is not proof — it is evidence to be interrogated.
- Media and analysts advise waiting for corroboration before drawing final conclusions.
What Happens Next?
The Madlanga Commission may:
- Request documentary evidence to support or refute Mogotsi’s claims, including the Blue Report.
- Summon senior police or intelligence officials to testify.
- Refer any substantiated criminal findings to law-enforcement agencies or prosecutors.
Conclusion
Mogotsi’s claim that Matlala is the real-life “John Wick” — combined with suggestions of political connections and the presentation of the Blue Report — ranks among the most dramatic allegations to surface at the Commission so far. While undeniably newsworthy, the statements remain unproven allegations pending further evidence and cross-examination.
Disclaimer: This article reports allegations made at a public commission and provides background for public understanding. It does not present those allegations as fact.
