The management of 12 On Hillel Villa & Spa in Northcliff has issued a formal denial of any involvement with Lerato Kganyago or alleged criminal activity. This comes after the hotel was named in witness testimony at the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, also known as the Madlanga Commission.
The Northcliff Hotel insists that it has no operational or ownership ties to the South African media personality and distances itself from claims made during the ongoing national inquiry.
Understanding the Madlanga Commission
The Madlanga Commission, chaired by former Constitutional Court judge Mbuyiseli Madlanga, is investigating the capture and collapse of key law enforcement institutions. It focuses on systemic corruption, political interference, and the infiltration of criminal syndicates in the justice system.
The commission’s role is to “safeguard the integrity of the justice system” and provide recommendations on restoring accountability.
Read more in our detailed report: Witness A Reveals Details of Katiso Molefe’s 2024 Arrest at Madlanga Commission for insights from the Commission testimony.
Northcliff Hotel: Clear Denial of Allegations
In a media statement dated 21 October 2025 (see image above), 12 On Hillel Villa & Spa clarified its stance following widespread media reports. The statement addresses five main points to counter the allegations:
- The hotel does not belong to the individual named as “Vusi Ndlala” in testimony.
- The person who stayed at the hotel was identified as “Vusi Makhubela,” a different guest.
- The hotel denies hosting any party or event on the date alleged.
- There is no evidence of criminal activity involving any staff or management.
- Most notably, the hotel affirms that Lerato Kganyago has no operational, managerial, or ownership role.
“The Hotel notes with concern that media commentary has directed criticism toward Mrs Lerato Kganyago, despite her having no operational, managerial or ownership involvement,” the statement reads.
For background on the case, see: Armand Swart Murder: How Investigators Linked Katiso Molefe to the Case.
Who Is Lerato Kganyago?
Lerato Kganyago is a well-known South African radio and TV personality. She previously posted photos online implying ownership or part-ownership of 12 On Hillel. In past interviews, she even referred to the boutique hotel as a “gift” from her partner, businessman Thami Ndlala.
However, public records have painted a mixed picture. A report revealed that she may have been more of a brand ambassador than an owner.
Discrepancy Between Public Perception and Official Records
This public clarification by the Northcliff Hotel contradicts the earlier belief — widely shared on social media — that Kganyago owned the hotel. The statement also disputes the claim that the venue was used for unlawful gatherings tied to the criminal justice sector.
“Any evidence presented to the Commission suggesting that Mr Vusi is the owner of, or operates, the Hotel should not be taken at face value,” the hotel’s management said.
Hotel Urges Responsible Media Reporting
The hotel expressed concern about the damage caused by media speculation. It called on outlets to verify facts before linking personalities or properties to serious allegations.
This echoes similar warnings from civil society groups. Karam Singh, executive director of Corruption Watch, previously said:
“Commissions of inquiry do not always lead to direct accountability, but they play a vital role in exposing wrongdoing.”
Booking Logs Show No Event Took Place
To support its claims, the hotel pointed to internal records.
“Our booking records and event-log confirm that no function of that nature took place in the relevant time-frame,” the statement says.
The document also states that guests are free to visit the hotel lawfully and that management cannot be held accountable for the private actions or conversations of guests.
Legal and Reputational Ramifications
While Lerato Kganyago has not issued a recent statement, her name continues to trend in connection to the Commission. Legal experts warn that reputational damage can persist long after false associations are made.
Mary de Haas, a criminologist, said:
“High-profile names can be unfairly implicated in cases like this, especially when misinformation spreads quickly.”
Importance of Verified Reporting
This case highlights the need for responsible journalism and fact-based commentary, especially when covering high-stakes inquiries like the Madlanga Commission. While testimony is valuable, it must be assessed alongside verifiable evidence.
Learn more in: Senzo Mchunu Defends Himself, Says He’s No Criminal and Knows Brown Mogotsi.
The Northcliff Hotel has now publicly distanced itself from the controversy. Its denial aligns with the principle of innocent until proven guilty, a cornerstone of any transparent justice system.
