By Omphile Maebane
POLOKWANE: Tsebe Phillimon Moloto, founder of the Limpopo Anti-Drugs, Gangsterism and Crime (LADGAC) Rehabilitation Centre, was granted R50 000 bail by the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Monday after appearing on two counts of malicious damage to property.
The charges relate to allegations involving property belonging to his former girlfriend and business partner. The matter was postponed to 22 September 2026 to allow for further police investigations.
Moloto, popularly known as “Mr Moloto”, is widely recognised for his work in rehabilitating people affected by substance abuse through LADGAC. Over the years, he has built a reputation for helping people overcome addiction and reconnect with their families, making his arrest a matter of public interest across Limpopo.
During the bail proceedings, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) told the court that Moloto and the complainant were previously in a romantic relationship and had also been business partners. According to the State, the complainant later established her own rehabilitation centre after their relationship ended.
The prosecution alleges that on 28 June 2026, Moloto deliberately set fire to the complainant’s Toyota Hilux while it was parked at her parents’ home in Seshego Zone 3. The State further alleges that he later set alight a signboard advertising the complainant’s rehabilitation centre in Ladanna.
Prosecutors estimate the damage at approximately R800 000. The allegations have not been tested in court, and Moloto has not been convicted of any offence.
Although the State did not oppose bail, prosecutors requested strict conditions to protect the integrity of the investigation. The court granted Moloto bail of R50 000 on condition that he reports to the police when required, has no contact with the complainant and does not interfere with State witnesses while the case is before the court.
Speaking outside the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court, Oageng Makhura, who was previously associated with LADGAC, urged the public to allow the legal process to take its course.
“Some battles belong to God. The court will decide. There is no problem if a person is granted bail,” Makhura said.
His comments reflected a call for patience while the matter proceeds through the courts.
The case has attracted widespread attention across Limpopo and on social media because of Moloto’s long-standing role in community rehabilitation. While many have acknowledged his contribution to the fight against substance abuse, others have stressed that the allegations should be thoroughly investigated and determined by the courts.
Legal experts note that the granting of bail should not be interpreted as a finding of guilt or innocence. Under South African law, every accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty, and bail simply allows an accused to remain out of custody while awaiting trial, subject to conditions set by the court.
Attempts to obtain comment from Moloto or his legal representative were unsuccessful by the time of publication.
Moloto is expected to return to the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on 22 September 2026, when the State is expected to provide an update on the progress of its investigation.
