Philemon Moloto, known as Mr Moloto, appeared in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on 22 September 2026 where the state added seven new charges against him, increasing the total to nine. These include five counts of attempted murder, arson, and trespassing related to the burning of a rehabilitation centre connected to his former partner Patricia Rachidi.
According to court proceedings, the incident dates back to 28 June 2026 when Moloto allegedly set alight a Toyota Hilux bakkie at Rachidi’s family home in Seshego Zone 3. Flames reportedly spread to a nearby house where seven people were asleep. The state also accused him of setting fire to a signboard advertising Rachidi’s rehabilitation business in Ladanna.
Moloto was initially arrested in July 2026 and granted R50,000 bail on two counts of malicious damage to property. The estimated damage from the incidents is around R800,000.
Magistrate Rodgers Machovani said in court that the matter would be postponed to 30 October 2026 to allow the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to determine the appropriate court forum for the trial. “By agreement between the defence and the State, this matter is now remanded for the determination of the forum where the matter will be tried. The determination will be made by the Director of Public Prosecutions. The matter is then postponed to the 30th of October 2026 for that purpose. Accused, you are still on bail. You are to be available in this court on that day,” Magistrate Machovani said.
Moloto is the founder of the Limpopo Anti-Drugs, Gangsterism and Crime rehabilitation centre (LADGAC), a community organisation aimed at combating substance abuse and crime. The case represents a significant escalation from initial charges of malicious damage to property to serious criminal allegations including attempted murder. These charges remain untested in court.
The personal relationship between Moloto and Patricia Rachidi has been mentioned in reports but remains unverified by multiple primary sources. The investigation and court process continue to develop.
CapeFlats.co.za will monitor court updates and provide further details after the matter returns to Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on 30 October 2026.