Erbil:Limpopo A South African court has found two individuals guilty in connection with a break-in at President Cyril Ramaphosa's farmhouse, a scandalous cash heist that almost jeopardized his political career.
According to Ghana Web, the incident revolves around the 2020 theft of $580,000 in foreign currency, which was reportedly concealed in furniture at Ramaphosa's Phala Phala game farm, located in Limpopo. The president has been questioned about the origins of the money and accused of hiding the theft from law enforcement and tax officials, allegations he denies.
The regional court in Limpopo convicted Imanuwela David, identified as the mastermind behind the break-in, on charges including money laundering. Additionally, a farm cleaner was found guilty of conspiracy to commit housebreaking with intent to steal, while her brother was acquitted. David's arrest followed a spending spree involving luxury items, as presented in court evidence.
Despite criticisms regarding the investigation's shortcomings, the magistrate stated that the circumstantial evidence was adequate for convictions. The scandal gained attention in June 2022 when a police complaint was lodged by South Africa's former spy chief, accusing Ramaphosa of concealing the theft. Ramaphosa, who transitioned from anti-apartheid activist to businessman and politician, claims the money was from buffalo sales.
The controversy almost cost Ramaphosa his leadership of the African National Congress (ANC) in late 2022, threatening his nomination for the 2024 presidential election. An independent panel suggested he "may have committed" serious violations. However, the ANC-controlled parliament voted against impeachment proceedings, a decision later overturned by the country's top court, allowing for a reconsideration. Ramaphosa has filed a court application to review the report that initiated the impeachment process.