“This Is A Difficult Time For Me”

Moitheri “Terry” Pheto has finally released a statement in light of her recent headline making scandal. The actress turned television and film producer faced her first public scandal which has risked her “media darling” persona since first coming into mainstream success back in 2005 through the Oscar winning film Tsotsi.

This is as the star was recently confirmed as part of the number of people currently being investigated by the Special Investigation Unit (SIU). Apparently, Moitheri as we have come to all learn Terry’s real name unlawfully benefitted from the National Lottery Council (NLC) as it is alleged that she received money which was meant to be given to non-profit organisations. As such, the thread created by the SIU stated in part that:

“The luxury properties, therefore, constitute proceeds of unlawful activities hence the application for a preservation order pending the final determination of the application for final forfeiture.
In terms of the High Court order, which was granted on 4 November 2022, prohibits, and restrains:

•Moitheri Pheto
•Lesley Ramulifho
•Collin Mukondeleli Tshisimba
•Fulufhelo Promise Kharivhe
•AO Residence Trust represented by Mashudu Shandukani
•Rasemate Family Trust represented by Rebotile Malomane…”

Given the backlash on the matter, it was only a matter of time until Moitheri released a statement. But it seems that tweeps were less than happy upon reading her version of events.

“This is a difficult time for me” – Terry Pheto

Eventually breaking her silence on the matter as it seems that it had finally gotten her attention and threatened her brand deals. Moitheri shared her official statement on the matter, which obviously denied any knowledge of the investigation or wrong doing.

This is despite the big question as to where would Moitheri earn the 10 million, which is believed to have been paid in cash, for the two Ocean Baskets she is said to own which require R5 million each to start up…

While she might have needed R10 million to start the franchises, the statement did reveal that the “two ocean basket franchises in the East Rand with the combined value of approximately R25 million.” Meaning that Moitheri is rich-rich.

In her statement, Moitheri decided to play ignorant and the victim as she ended her statement by sharing that, “This is a difficult time for me. I would like to thank everyone for their unwavering messages of support”

pic.twitter.com/Edgne6taIs

— Terry Pheto (@TerryPheto) November 5, 2022

When sharing that she was going through a difficult time, she might have been referring to the fact that the SIU also shared that she is “prohibited from selling, disposing of, leasing, transferring, donating, or dealing in any manner whatsoever with respect to the immovable and movable properties.”

Safe to say that the statement did not land well for tweeps as they took to the timeline to drag Moitheri for filth. Whether it was to highlight that the corruption allegations are not salacious rumours perpetuated by the media, or the fact that the SIU would not formally share its statement if there was no proof of wrongdoing. Moitheri seems like she would need to do better if she is planning to reclaim her public image.

SIU wouldn’t investigate you without having evidence, wena wa vaya, you’re looking at a minimum of 10 years unless you corporate with the state. https://t.co/c0az1WqzMb

— ShakaZuluuu (@ZuluuuS) November 5, 2022

Lmao there are two institutions in SA that dont just come for you. Its SARS and the SIU. Please Aus’ Terry 😂 https://t.co/I1sDrJy37i

— Salvator Mundi🦉 (@Bis_Kuits) November 5, 2022

Go off sis, but I’m not convinced at all. An SIU investigation is not akin to a front page Sunday World exposé 💀😭 https://t.co/KIpZOjPQsf pic.twitter.com/5wIqzubJXr

— Mince LàSalad (@MinceLaSalle) November 5, 2022