Well-known Limpopo businessman and founder of the Limpopo Anti-Drugs, Gangsterism, and Crime (LADGAG) rehabilitation programme, Phillimon Moloto, popularly known as “Mr Moloto,” has been released on bail after appearing before the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on charges related to malicious damage to property.
The court granted the 51-year-old businessman bail of R50,000 on Tuesday following his arrest earlier this week. His case stems from allegations that he was involved in two separate arson incidents that took place in the Polokwane area.
Moloto is widely recognised in Limpopo for his work in helping young people overcome alcohol and drug addiction through the LADGAG rehabilitation centre. Over the years, the organisation has gained attention for its efforts to rehabilitate individuals struggling with substance abuse and criminal behaviour.
However, the businessman now faces serious allegations after police linked him to incidents involving the destruction of property by fire.
According to investigators, the first incident occurred in Ladanna, where Moloto is accused of setting fire to a signboard belonging to another rehabilitation facility. Authorities allege that the signboard was deliberately torched, leading to a criminal investigation.
Police further claim that after the incident in Ladanna, Moloto travelled to Seshego, where he allegedly set a light motor vehicle on fire. The blaze reportedly spread beyond the vehicle, eventually reaching a nearby residential property.
At the time of the fire, several members of the family living in the house were asleep inside. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported despite the danger posed by the flames. Emergency responders managed to contain the fire before it caused even greater damage.
The incidents prompted a police investigation, which ultimately resulted in Moloto’s arrest earlier this week. Detectives believe the two fires are connected and are continuing to gather evidence as part of the ongoing investigation.
During his court appearance, the prosecution did not oppose bail under certain conditions, and the magistrate granted Moloto’s release after setting bail at R50,000.
As part of the bail conditions, Moloto is expected to comply with all court requirements while investigations continue. The exact conditions of his release were not publicly disclosed during the proceedings.
The matter has been postponed until **22 September 2026**, allowing police additional time to finalise their investigation. Authorities are expected to continue collecting witness statements, forensic evidence, and any other information relevant to the case before the matter returns to court.
The allegations have attracted significant public attention due to Moloto’s profile as a community figure involved in anti-drug initiatives. While many people know him for his efforts to assist young people battling addiction, the charges now place him at the centre of a high-profile criminal investigation.
It is important to note that the charges against Moloto remain allegations at this stage. He is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. The court proceedings in September are expected to provide further clarity as investigators complete their work and prosecutors determine how they intend to proceed with the case.
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