Particle.news
Download on the App Store

IPHC Faction Leader Michael Sandlana Denied Bail in Alleged Judge Bribery Case

The decision follows a Hawks sting into an alleged attempt to buy rulings in the church’s succession battle.

Overview

  • The Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court ordered Sandlana to remain in custody until his next appearance on March 6, 2026.
  • Prosecutors opposed bail, citing flight risk and the possibility of interference with witnesses on corruption and money-laundering charges.
  • Sandlana was arrested in a Hawks operation that also led to the arrests of Judge Portia Phahlane, her son Kagiso, and IPHC spokesperson Vusi Ndala.
  • Judge Phahlane, Ndala and Kagiso were previously granted bail under strict conditions that include passport surrender, no contact with witnesses, and a ban on the judge entering the Pretoria High Court precinct.
  • Investigators say they traced a money trail amounting to millions of rand, the judiciary placed Judge Phahlane on special leave, and Sandlana denies the allegations.