PRETORIA - The Hawks say more arrests in the International Pentecostal Holiness Church (IPHC) corruption case are imminent.
Judge Portia Phahlane and disgraced IPHC leader Michael Sandlana, Phahlane's son Kagiso and IPHC former spokespeson were arrested last year.
It was alleged that Sandlana had paid Phahlane R2 million in order for her to rule in his favour in the church's succession battle in 2023.
READ: Judge, son, IPHC leaders in hot water over bribery claims
In in lengthy battle that spans almost a decade, Sandlana believes himself to be rightful heir to the leadership throne of the church.
The church was founded in 1962 by former ZCC minister Frederick S. Modise. After his death in 1998, His son, Glayton M. Modise took over.
The younger Modise died in 2016 resulting in a succession battle between his sons, Leonard and Tshepiso.
Sandlana claims to be Modise's biological son - a claim that is being challenged by the brothers and other factions in the church.
After a seven year battle, Leonard and Tshepiso eventually abandoned their claims to leadership in 2023.
Around the same time, Phahlane alleged that she was receiving death threats and, thus feared for her life. She appeared in court with bodyguards for her protection.
READ: Formal complaint lodged with JSC against Judge Phahlane amid corruption claims
She was also asked to recuse herself. Two years later, in a swift action by the Hawks, Phahlane and her son were arrested in their home.
Chief Justice Mandisa Maya placed Phahlane on special leave in order to safeguard the integrity of the judiciary.
READ: IPHC leadership battle | Recusal application dismissed
The rival church faction said the fallout was long overdue, a reckoning they insist has been years in the making.
During bail applications Sandlana was denied bail after allegedly resisting arrest, leaving the opposing faction feeling vindicated.
READ: IPHC trial postponed after judge receives death threats
Judges Matter said it was unprecedented to have a judge arrested on corruption and bribery charges.
The matter has been postponed to 23 July for further investigation.