By BAKANG MOKOTO
26 November 2025- The Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team based at the Head Office has arrested four suspects, the Judge, the leader of a well-known church and two others aged between 32 and 64 on charges of corruption and money laundering during an operation conducted last night. The takedown operation stems from serious allegations of corruption involving attempts to influence a civil case currently before the Pretoria High Court.
The Hawks spokesperson, Colonel Katlego Mogale said the matter relates to a well-known South African church embroiled in a long-standing succession dispute. Mogale said it is alleged that a presiding judge received gratification from the main accused in exchange for delivering a favourable judgment in the succession matter.
“This prosecution led investigation has further uncovered the involvement of three additional suspects in the alleged corruption and money laundering scheme. As a result, warrants of arrest were obtained for the identified individuals.
“The investigation revealed a money trail amounting to millions of rand that allegedly exchanged hands among the accused. The four suspects are expected to appear in Pretoria Serious Commercial Crimes Court today,” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting National Head of the DPCI, Lieutenant General (Acting) Siphosihle Nkosi, welcomed the arrests and commended the collaborative effort between the Hawks and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).Nkosi said these arrests demonstrate the DPCI’s unwavering commitment to tackling corruption at all levels.
“The meticulous work by the Serious Corruption Investigation team, supported by our partners in the NPA, 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,” he said.
The Guardian 