South African’s Ex-Spy Chief Sues President Ramaphosa

A former head of the South African Intelligence Agency has sued President Cyril Ramaphosa for alleged crimes that include kidnapping and bribing robbers who stole millions of dollars from one of his properties.

Arthur Fraser accused the President of concealing a theft incident in which alleged criminals entered his property and were caught after stealing $4m (£3.2m).

He claimed the suspects were subsequently kidnapped, interrogated, and paid off to keep silent about the February 9, 2020 incident.

Mr. Fraser said that “he has taken an unprecedented step to lay criminal charges against his Excellency, the President of the Republic of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa.”

The former spy chief said he had provided police with evidence “including photographs, bank accounts, video footage, and names.”

He argued that the President’s conduct was in breach of law on the prevention of organised crime.

Police have confirmed that a criminal case had been opened against the President and due process would follow.

The Presidency said Mr. Ramaphosa has been made aware of the case and would respond in due course.

Mr. Fraser became chief of the Country’s Correctional Services after his career in intelligence. Last year, he ordered the release of the former President, Jacob Zuma from prison on medical grounds.

BBC/Temitope Obisesan/Christopher Ojilere