The Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crime Court on Monday denied bail to International Pentecostal Holiness Church faction leader Bhekumzi Mike Sandlana, accused of bribing High Court Judge Portia Phahlane in a church succession dispute. The court found he is a flight risk and did not show exceptional circumstances.

Sandlana faces corruption and money laundering charges. He will remain in custody, with the matter returning to court on 6 March 2026.