Pretoria – A Judge, a leader of a well-known church, and two others have been arrested on charges of corruption and money laundering and are expected to appear in court today.
Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale said all four suspects were arrested during an operation conducted at night on Tuesday, 25 November 2025.
“The takedown operation stems from serious allegations of corruption involving attempts to influence a civil case currently before the Pretoria High Court,” said Colonel Mogale.
“The matter relates to a well-known South African church embroiled in a long-standing succession dispute.
“It is alleged that a presiding judge received gratification from the main accused in exchange for delivering a favourable judgment in the succession matter.”
Colonel Mogale added: “This prosecution-led investigation has further uncovered the involvement of three additional suspects in the alleged corruption and money laundering scheme.”
The investigation revealed a money trail amounting to millions of rand that allegedly exchanged hands among the accused.
As a result, warrants of arrest were obtained for the identified individuals.
Colonel Mogale said the four suspects were expected to appear before the Pretoria Serious Commercial Crimes Court this morning, 26 November 2025.
The Acting National Head of the DPCI, Lieutenant General Siphosihle Nkosi, welcomed the arrests and commended the collaborative effort between the Hawks and the NPA.
“These arrests demonstrate the DPCI’s unwavering commitment to tackling corruption at all levels,” said Lieutenant General Nkosi.
“The meticulous work by the Serious Corruption Investigation team, supported by our partners in the National Prosecuting Authority, reflects the strength of our collective resolve.
“We will continue to pursue all those who abuse positions of trust and undermine the rule of law.”
