Why Judge Portia Phahlane was arrested? What happens next
Judge Phahlane arrested in Hawks church bribery probe.
South Africa’s judiciary has been shaken after the dramatic arrest of Gauteng High Court Judge Portia Dipuo Phahlane, who now faces serious charges of corruption and money laundering linked to a bitter leadership battle within one of the country’s largest religious organisations. Civil society groups are calling for her immediate suspension as investigators uncover what they describe as a “money trail worth millions.”
The arrest, carried out late Tuesday night by the Hawks (Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation), marks one of the most significant corruption scandals to hit the country’s legal system in recent years.
Hawks Operation Uncovers Alleged Multi-Million Rand Bribe
According to Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale, Judge Portia Phahlane was arrested alongside three other suspects, including her own son, during a targeted operation into the International Pentecost Holiness Church (IPHC) succession dispute.
Investigators say they discovered a multi-million-rand financial trail, allegedly exchanged between factions fighting for control of the IPHC, which commands millions of followers across Southern Africa.
Authorities allege that Judge Portia Phahlane accepted bribes to influence rulings in favour of one faction, potentially swaying judgments in a long-running civil case before the Pretoria High Court. The suspects are due to appear before the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court.
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IPHC Succession Battle at the Heart of the Corruption Probe
The case connects to a long-standing dispute within the IPHC, triggered by the death of its leader Glayton Modise in 2016. His passing ignited a fierce power struggle involving his sons and senior church figures.
The fight for leadership has resulted in:
- Violent clashes
- Property disputes
- Multiple court interventions
- A fractured congregation split across rival camps
The latest arrests mark a dramatic new chapter in a saga that has dragged on for nearly a decade.
Judges Matter Calls for Immediate Suspension
Civil watchdog Judges Matter responded with urgency, warning of potential long-term damage to the judiciary’s integrity if decisive action is not taken. The organisation said the allegations “strike at the heart of a judge’s constitutional duty,” urging the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to advise the President to suspend Phahlane under section 19(1)(b) of the JSC Act.
Alison Tilley, the group’s coordinator, stressed that while Phahlane remains innocent until proven guilty, the gravity of the claims requires immediate intervention. Any delay, she said, could cause irreparable harm to public trust in the courts.
Hawks Insist the Arrests Show Serious Commitment to Tackling Corruption
Acting Hawks head Lieutenant General Siphosihle Nkosi praised investigators for what he described as meticulous work supported by the National Prosecuting Authority.
“These arrests demonstrate the DPCI’s unwavering commitment to tackling corruption at all levels,” he said, vowing to pursue anyone who misuses public trust.
What Happens Next? Judicial Suspension, Tribunal & Court Case
Based on legal processes, the next steps may include:
1. Immediate Judicial Suspension: If the JSC advises the President, Judge Phahlane could be suspended pending the tribunal outcome.
2. Establishment of a Judicial Conduct Tribunal: Section 19 allows the Chief Justice to appoint a tribunal to investigate serious misconduct.
3. Criminal Proceedings in Court: The Pretoria Commercial Crimes Court will determine bail, charges, and trial timelines.
4. Possible Removal From Office: If found guilty by the tribunal and courts, Phahlane could face impeachment.
For now, all eyes remain on Wednesday’s court appearance.
FAQ
1. Why was Judge Portia Phahlane arrested?
Judge Phahlane was arrested for allegedly accepting multi-million-rand bribes to influence rulings in a leadership dispute within the International Pentecost Holiness Church (IPHC).
2. Who arrested Judge Phahlane?
She was arrested by the Hawks (DPCI) during a corruption and money-laundering investigation linked to the IPHC succession battle.
3. What charges does Judge Phahlane face?
She faces charges of corruption, money laundering, and alleged judicial misconduct relating to a civil case she presided over.
4. Is Judge Phahlane suspended?
Not yet. Civil group Judges Matter has called on the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to urgently advise the President to suspend her pending investigation.
5. What is the IPHC succession dispute?
It is a long-running battle over who should lead the International Pentecost Holiness Church following the death of leader Glayton Modise in 2016. The feud involves several factions and has sparked numerous court cases.
6. Who else was arrested with Judge Phahlane?
Three others, including her son, were arrested. All suspects allegedly participated in the bribery scheme.
7. How much money was involved in the alleged bribe?
Investigators linked the suspects to a money trail worth millions of rand, allegedly exchanged to sway judicial outcomes.
8. When will Judge Phahlane appear in court?
She and the other suspects are scheduled to appear before the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court.
9. What could happen next legally?
Possible next steps include a JSC-directed suspension, a Judicial Conduct Tribunal, and continuation of criminal proceedings.
10. Why is this arrest significant?
It is one of the most serious judicial corruption cases in recent years and could have long-term implications for public trust in South Africa’s courts.