a cash-heist that nearly cost him his job. The scandal centres on the 2020 theft of $580,000 in foreign currency allegedly hidden in furniture at Ramaphosa's Phala Phala game farm in the northern province of Limpopo.
The Phala Phala Break-In Trial Update
A South African regional court in Limpopo convicted two individuals in connection with the 2020 cash theft at President Cyril Ramaphosa's Phala Phala game farm, while pre-sentencing is scheduled for November 13, 2026.
Verdict and Convictions
- Imanuwela David: Identified by the state as the alleged mastermind of the break-in, David was found guilty on three of four charges, including money laundering and conspiracy, after evidence showed he spent the stolen cash on luxury vehicles, property, and a diamond-encrusted Rolex watch.
- Froliana Joseph: A former temporary cleaner at the Phala Phala farm, Joseph was found guilty of conspiracy to commit housebreaking with intent to steal.
- Ndilinasho Joseph: Froliana’s brother was acquitted of all charges due to insufficient evidence.
- Next Steps: The Modimolle Regional Court adjourned the matter for pre-sentencing on November 13, 2026.
Background of the "Farmgate" Scandal
- The Theft: In February 2020, burglars cut through a perimeter wire and entered the main farmhouse at Phala Phala in Limpopo province, stealing $580,000 in foreign currency that had been stashed inside a couch/furniture.
- The Stash: President Ramaphosa maintained that the cash—which critics initially alleged was closer to $4 million—was legally obtained from the sale of buffaloes.
- Political Fallout: The scandal erupted in June 2022 after a former intelligence chief filed a police complaint accusing Ramaphosa of concealing the crime and failing to report it properly to tax and police authorities.
- Impeachment Repercussions:
Although Ramaphosa survived internal ANC leadership challenges and an initial parliamentary vote blocking an inquiry, the Constitutional Court ruled in May 2026 that parliament's decision to shelve an independent misconduct panel's report was unlawful, reviving potential parliamentary scrutiny as Ramaphosa pursues legal challenges to review the report.
