Limpopo businessman behind popular rehab centre appears in court
Phillimon Tsebe Moloto, who owns the Limpopo Anti-Drug, Gangsterism and Crime rehabilitation centre in Polokwane, was arrested at his Welgelegen home on Monday.
Moloto, who rose to prominence through social media where he documents his work of retrieving people battling drug addiction and rehabilitating them, made his first appearance in the Polokwane Magistrates Court on Tuesday.
The 51-year-old faces two counts of malicious damage to property linked to incidents on 28 June, where a rehabilitation centre signboard and a Toyota Hilux bakkie, valued at an estimated R400 000, were allegedly set alight.
He initially appeared in the Seshego Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday before the matter was transferred to Polokwane for consolidation.
The court heard that Moloto has no previous convictions, pending cases, or history of domestic violence.
BAIL GRANTED WITH CONDITIONS
As part of his bail conditions, Moloto must report to the Polokwane police station twice a week, on Mondays and Fridays.
He is also prohibited from reapplying for his passport while the case is ongoing and must inform the investigating officer if he intends to leave the province.
Moloto is also barred from contacting the complainant, Molebogeng Rachidi, or visiting her home or workplace.
The founder of LADGAC, Tsebe Philimon Moloto, was granted bail of R50,000 by the Polokwane Magistrates' Court. He is facing two counts of malicious damage to property. He is alleged to have set alight his former girlfriend and business partner’s Toyota Hilux and a signage board. pic.twitter.com/r3g7JpIn6Z
— NPASouthAfrica (@NPA_Prosecutes) July 14, 2026
‘NO BAIL FOR MOLOTO’
Meanwhile, some members of the public who attended the proceedings expressed disappointment at the bail ruling.
The complainant’s mother, Elizabeth Rachidi, said she was saddened by the decision but remained hopeful as the case continues.
“I was home when the incident occurred and there were seven of us in the house, we could have died if the fire wasn’t contained, but it is well because the case is still continuing. His release on bail does not mean that the matter is closed,” she said.
Moloto’s former business partner, Oageng Makhura, said it was now up to the courts to ultimately determine guilt or innocence.
The business relationship between Makhura and Moloto soured soon after the inception of their rehabilitation centre, resulting in a split.
“Some battles belong to God. The court will decide. There is no problem if a person is granted bail,” he said.
The case has been postponed to 22 September 2026 for further police investigations.
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