Phala Phala mastermind allegedly spent burglary loot on luxury cars and diamonds

The ex-girlfriend of the alleged mastermind behind the Phala Phala burglary has testified in court regarding how he showered her with a luxury car, money, gifts, and a R100,000 deposit for a Cape Town apartment.

The witness, who cannot be named to protect her identity, took the stand at the Modimolle Regional Court yesterday. She testified against her former lover and "Accused Number One," Imanuwela David.

David is charged alongside siblings Froliana and Ndilinasho Joseph for allegedly breaking into President Cyril Ramaphosa’s farm and stealing $580,000 in cash.

TESTIMONY OF EXCESS
According to the testimony, David surprised his then-girlfriend with a fully paid Mercedes-Benz worth R500,000 just days after the burglary occurred. The witness further detailed that David regularly sent her money and provided the R100,000 down payment for her apartment.

When questioned about the source of his sudden wealth, the witness stated David claimed he had secured a lucrative contract.

“He told me he got a tender delivering mercury outside the country,” she told the court.

The relationship ended in 2021, at which point David reclaimed the luxury vehicle. “He asked for his car back. I went with him to the traffic department and handed back the car,” she testified.

ADDITIONAL EVIDENCE
Other witnesses who testified yesterday alleged that David’s spending spree extended beyond gifts for his partner. Evidence was presented suggesting David purchased:

A Rolex watch

Diamonds

A R1 million property in Rustenburg

The trial is set to continue next Wednesday.