Hendrik von Wiellgh, the manager of Phala Phala farm, testified at the Modimolle Regional Court that the suspect involved in the recent break-in was not authorized to enter President Cyril Ramaphosa’s private residence. Von Wiellgh revealed that his predecessor, Sylvester Ndlovu, violated protocol by allowing temporary workers to clean the president’s house—individuals who, according to current rules, should not have had access to this part of the farm.
On the day of the break-in, Von Wiellgh explained that he promptly informed President Ramaphosa about the security breach. He emphasized that strict access control measures have always been in place to safeguard the president’s property, and the presence of unauthorized personnel in the residence contravened these security standards.
Von Wiellgh’s testimony underscores concerns about lapses in the management of the farm’s security protocols during the period when temporary workers were permitted inside the president’s home without proper vetting or approval. His statement could be pivotal in the ongoing investigation into how the break-in occurred and who holds responsibility.
The Phala Phala farm, known as President Ramaphosa’s private estate, has seen increased public and legal scrutiny following the incident. Ensuring that only trusted personnel operate within the residence is crucial to maintaining the safety and privacy of the farm and its owner.
In summary, the farm manager confirmed that allowing the suspect inside the president’s house was against established rules, and immediate action was taken once the break-in was discovered. This admission raises questions about previous management decisions and the farm’s security measures moving forward