The Modimolle regional court in Limpopo has reserved judgment on a pivotal application for a trial within a trial in the notorious case concerning the theft of $580,000 at President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala Farm, a matter that has captured national attention. The case revolves around three accused individuals — Immanuela David, and siblings Floriana and Ndilinasho Joseph — who stand accused of breaking into the President’s estate and allegedly making off with a significant sum of money in February 2020.
During the proceedings, which showcased the intricacies and potential inconsistencies of the evidence presented, the state initiated a request for the court to examine the evidence of its fourth witness. This witness raised eyebrows as he claimed to have been coerced into signing a statement he did not author, alleging that it had been presented to him by the police. Such declarations raise significant concerns over the integrity of witness testimonies and the overall fairness of the trial.
The fourth witness has since been provisionally excused from testifying further. With the courtroom buzzing with anticipation, attention shifted to the sixth state witness, the general manager of Phala Phala Farm, who provided crucial insights regarding the condition of the property post-burglary.
“Some of the pillows in the sitting room and staff were not in their place, so there was little time, and cushions were laying on the floor,” the manager recounted, providing an intriguing glimpse into the scene of the crime. “There was clear evidence that someone had been in the house, so I immediately instructed them to look at what was stolen. Even I can see the big screen TV was still there.” This testimony not only painted a vivid picture of the chaos but underscored the severity of the allegation facing the accused.