Accused in Phala Phala robbery plead not guilty in high-profile trial

The three accused in the robbery at President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala farm pleaded not guilty to the charges against them in the Modimolle Regional Court in Limpopo yesterday. 

Immanuela David and siblings, Florian and Ndilinasho Joseph, appeared in court in connection with the theft of $580 000 from the Phala Phala game farm in 2020.

The trio faces charges of theft, housebreaking, and conspiracy to commit housebreaking with the intent to steal. 

David also faces a charge of money laundering. 

The money was allegedly stolen from a couch on Ramaphosa’s property, where it was hidden. 

After several delays, the trial began two years after the trio was arrested. 

As the State presents its case before the court, a total of 20 witnesses are expected to be called in the matter. 

This comes as Presidential Protection Services head Major-General Wally Rhoode was cleared of wrongdoing by SAPS after the conclusion of a disciplinary hearing into findings made against him by Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka two years ago.

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said Rhoode was subjected to a disciplinary hearing in terms of the SAPS disciplinary regulations.

Cachalia said: “He was found not guilty of any misconduct related to the findings of the Public Protector in that he conducted an illegal investigation in relation to the robbery at the Phala Phala farm of the President, Mr (Cyril) Ramaphosa, in Limpopo in February 2020."

He also said Rhoode was still an active member of the SAPS and held the position of head of Presidential Protection Service.

Cape Times