From two to nine: Charges pile up for Mr Moloto as state adds five attempted murder counts

Tsebe Philimon Moloto, popularly known as “Mr Moloto”, is facing a significantly expanded criminal case after the State added seven charges to the allegations stemming from an incident involving his former partner and business associate.

Moloto appeared briefly in the Polokwane Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 22 September, where the additional charges were formally added. He now faces nine charges in total, including five counts of attempted murder, arson, trespassing and two counts of malicious damage to property.

Moloto initially faced two counts of malicious damage to property.

The new charges relate to allegations surrounding the burning of a Toyota Hilux belonging to his former partner, Lebo Rachidi, on 28 June 2026.

According to the State, the vehicle was set alight while parked at Rachidi’s parents’ home in Seshego Zone 3. The fire allegedly spread towards the house, where several people were sleeping.

The State has consequently added five counts of attempted murder, alleging that people inside the property were placed in danger.

The additional charges also include arson and trespassing. Prosecutor Kgaugelo Lekoloane told the court that the charges arise from the same incident.

Limpopo National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Mashudu Malabi-Dzangi confirmed that the matter had escalated from the original two charges.

“Initially, the accused was facing two counts of malicious damage to property. The matter is now being referred to the DPP to determine whether it will be heard in the Regional Court or the High Court,” Malabi-Dzangi said.

He added that the State believes it has a strong case against Moloto.

“Yes, the State has a strong case against the accused.”

The allegations followed the breakdown of Moloto’s personal and business relationship with Rachidi. The two were previously romantically involved and worked together at the Limpopo Anti-Drug, Gangsterism and Crime Rehabilitation Centre, known as LADGAC.

Rachidi subsequently established her own rehabilitation centre.

Authorities allege that, in addition to the Hilux incident, a signboard advertising Rachidi’s new rehabilitation business was also set alight in Ladanna. The alleged damage from the incidents has been estimated at about R800 000.

Rachidi has spoken publicly about the emotional impact of the incident, saying she remains afraid following the alleged attack.

“I’m happy because at least now they’ve added more charges. I think we are moving somewhere now. It just shows how seriously they are taking this.”

But she said the situation had left her struggling with fear.

“I’m not okay. I’m not okay, honestly. I panic. I have this constant fear that someone is coming for me. I get so paranoid when I sleep. When I hear someone knocking at my door, I think maybe they’re coming for me this time,” she said.

Rachidi has also alleged that Moloto breached his bail conditions by contacting her. The allegations concerning the alleged breach are separate from the State’s decision to add the new criminal charges.

Moloto is known publicly for his work in combating substance abuse through LADGAC, a rehabilitation centre in Polokwane.

His interventions with people battling drug addiction have been widely shared on social media. He became particularly recognisable for his early-morning interventions, often using the phrase “Wakey wakey, sleepy head” when arriving to assist families.

He has also appeared on television, including an episode of SABC 1’s Skeem Saam, where he and his team were brought in to assist a family dealing with a young person struggling with substance abuse.

That public profile now contrasts with the serious allegations before the court.

Moloto was arrested in July following an intelligence-driven police operation. He was subsequently granted R50 000 bail. Police previously said their investigation had linked him to the incidents.

His bail conditions include restrictions on contact with Rachidi and her family, as well as restrictions concerning her business and people associated with her. He was also ordered to report to police and not renew his passport.

At his latest appearance, Magistrate Rodgers Machuveni confirmed that Moloto remained on bail.

“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.”

Court to decide where trial will be heard

The case has been postponed to 30 October 2026.

The Director of Public Prosecutions will determine whether the matter should proceed in the Regional Court or the High Court.