A security guard who returned fire on two AK-47-wielding gunmen, and was nearly killed by their first bullet, was overcome with emotion as he relived the ambush when the state called its first witness in the trial of Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala and his four co-accused on Tuesday.

A Russian-model AK-47, identified down to its serial number, is the smoking gun that allegedly links Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala, his wife and their three co-accused to three hit plots.

A Russian-model AK-47, identified down to its serial number, is the smoking gun that allegedly links Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala, his wife and their three co-accused to three hit plots.