R6m property linked to judge's case preserved
The NPA, through its Asset Forfeiture Unit, has secured an order preserving a property at Hartbeespoort valued at about R6m, reports TimesLIVE.
The property, bought in 2022, is alleged to have been acquired partly through the proceeds of unlawful activities, including corruption and money laundering, NPA spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said.
The order, granted by the Gauteng High Court (Pretoria), preserves the property pending forfeiture. It cannot be sold and is placed under the control of a curator bonis until the forfeiture proceedings are finalised.
The application is part of a criminal prosecution before the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court in Pretoria.
Six accused are before the court, including Judge Portia Phahlane, who faces charges relating to alleged corruption.
According to the state, ‘A corrupt arrangement was allegedly established between late 2021 and early 2022 involving International Pentecostal Holiness Church faction leader Bhekumzi Mike Sandlana, court interpreter Morongwa Malope and Judge Phahlane.’
It is alleged that meetings took place in Brits, Nigel and Pretoria East, during which cash payments were made and discussions occurred concerning the manipulation and outcome of pending church leadership litigation.
‘Substantial funds linked to entities associated with the church dispute were channelled towards the acquisition of the Hartbeespoort property registered in the name of Judge Phahlane.'
Kganyago added the preservation order is part of a broader ongoing investigation.
Article disclaimer: While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this article, it is not intended to provide final legal advice as facts and situations will differ from case to case, and therefore specific legal advice should be sought with a lawyer.
