Impunity reigns in Phala Phala scandal

Ramaphosa's protector, Major-General Rhoode cleared of wrongdoing

- MAYIBONGWE MAQHINA

PRESIDENTIAL Protection Services head Major-General Wally Rhoode has been cleared of wrongdoing by the SAPS after the conclusion of a disciplinary hearing into findings made against him by Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka two years ago.

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said Rhoode was subjected to a disciplinary hearing in terms of the SAPS disciplinary regulations.

"He was found not guilty of any misconduct related to the findings of the Public Protector in that he conducted an illegal investigation in relation to the robbery at the Phala Phala farm of the President, Mr M C Ramaphosa, in Limpopo in February 2020," Cachalia said.

He said Rhoode was still an active member of the SAPS and held the position of head of Presidential Protection Service.

Cachalia was responding to ATM parliamentary leader Vuyo Zungula, who enquired about the disciplinary action taken against Rhoode after Gcaleka found that he conducted an illegal investigation into robbery at the Phala-Phala farm in February 2020.