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2mo ago

IPID Seeks Discipline of Ramaphosa Security Officials Over Phala Phala Cover-Up

The declassified watchdog report puts SAPS under pressure to open disciplinary cases over an unlawful, state-funded probe of a private theft.

President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on 4 January 2022. Picture: Jacques Nelles
President Cyril Ramaphosa. Picture: GCIS
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President Cyril Ramaphosa. Picture: GCIS

Overview

  • IPID, South Africa’s police watchdog, on Friday recommended disciplinary action against Major General Wally Rhoode and Constable Hlulani (Hulani) Rekhoto for misconduct tied to the 2020 Phala Phala farm theft.
  • Investigators found the theft was concealed, no case docket was opened, and Presidential Protection Unit staff and budgets were used to run an off-the-books probe of what IPID says was a private matter.
  • The report details bribery of suspects, unlawful apprehension and interrogation, kidnapping allegations, and an unlawful border crossing by Rhoode during efforts to track the stolen cash.
  • ActionSA obtained the previously “top secret” report after a legal fight and published it online, and IPID directed SAPS to start disciplinary proceedings and report back on outcomes.
  • The African Transformation Movement moved on Saturday to press for Ramaphosa’s impeachment, and the Constitutional Court has signaled a judgment is nearing on whether Parliament mishandled the broader Phala Phala matter.