Corruption-accused Judge Phahlane granted R50 000 Bail

Mapaballo Borotho

Judge Portia Phahlane and two co-accused have been released on bail after being arrested on corruption and money laundering charges.
The group faces allegations involving R2.4 million in payments allegedly made to influence a High Court case.
Sandlana remains in custody as the State intends to oppose his bail, with his hearing set for 3 December 2025.

High Court Judge Portia Phahlane has been released on R50 000 bail following her arrest on corruption and money laundering charges.

She was arrested on Tuesday evening alongside her son, Kagiso Phahlane, and Vusi Soli Ndala, who also appeared at the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court and were granted bail.

The leader of the International Pentecost Holiness Church, Bhekumuzi Mike Sandlana, was also arrested with the trio.

According to National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana, their bail conditions include not interfering with investigations or witnesses,

“They are required to hand over all passports by Friday, 28 November 2025, and refrain from applying for new travel documents. They are also required to attend all court proceedings. An additional condition prevents Judge Phahlane from entering High Court premises until further notice or upon successful application for an amendment of this restriction,” said Mahanjana.

All four accused face 19 counts of corruption.

It is alleged that between 2021 and 2022, Ndala and Sandlana paid approximately R2.4 million into various accounts for the benefit of Judge Phahlane, allegedly to influence her handling of Sandlana’s civil case before the High Court.

In court, the State did not oppose bail for Judge Phahlane, her son, or Ndala, stating there was no evidence they were flight risks and their home addresses had been confirmed.

However, the State indicated its intention to oppose bail for Sandlana and requested a postponement for his formal bail application.

Sandlana’s case was postponed to 3 December 2025 for his bail hearing, while the matter involving the other three accused was postponed to 6 March 2026 for further investigation.

Sandlana remains in custody.