Inside Hangwani Maumela’s mansion raided by SIU [video]

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) descended upon a luxurious Sandhurst residence in Sandton on Thursday, 9 October 2025, to seize a spectacular collection of luxury assets, including pricey art and exotic vehicles, belonging to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s nephew, Hangwani Morgan Maumela.

Maumela, in late September, was identified by the SIU as the alleged kingpin of the Maumela Syndicate.

This SIU operation targeted assets valued at approximately R520 million and was one of two raids on Maumela’s property, with another being conducted in Mpumalanga, according, to SABC News.

The seizure forms a critical part of the ongoing investigation into R816.5 million in irregular transactions linked to Maumela’s network. The Maumela Syndicate is one of three major criminal networks responsible for the ruthless siphoning of over R2 billion intended for vulnerable Gauteng healthcare services at the Tembisa Hospital.

The investigation, initiated following the findings of murdered whistleblower Babita Deokaran in 2021, revealed that the syndicate exploited the hospital’s procurement process by manipulating three-quote requests and deliberately splitting orders to circumvent mandatory tender processes.

Maumela Mansion: Manifestation of (Alleged) Ill-Gotten Gains

Previously showcased on Top Billing, the three-story residence’s aesthetic was helmed by designer Wanda Michelle Hadlow of Wanda Michelle Interiors. The Maumela mansion was described as an “artwork than a house” and reflects an edgy, flamboyant style tailored to the client’s personality.

The interior design incorporated black and gold touches for drama and featured custom-made, bespoke pieces. Structural modifications were implemented to introduce “cosy spaces” within the expansive structure.

The alleged proceeds of corruption funded features such as a private lift, which provides access to a luxurious bar, a cinema area and a subterranean 300m² basement parking garage. The massive mansion reportedly stretches from one end of the road to the other and includes amenities such as a fully equipped gym, a full salon/barbershop, and a car wash.

Opulence in the Master Suite and Seized Art

The opulence continued into the master suite, which designer Hadlow described as a “strong space” and one of her favourites, defined by opulent textures and pieces. While the master bathroom is expansive, it was designed as a simple space intended for reflection and to steam in hot water.

The residence also showcased a curated collection of incredible local art. Notable commissioned pieces seized during the operation included five bronze sculptures from the Disintegration series by Cecilia Wilmot Ballam.

One striking brass diving sculpture, titled “divert”, positioned above the pool, was designed to appear fluid despite the strength of the medium used, symbolising the balance between strength and soul.

The raid, authorised under a Special Tribunal order, saw SIU officials seize Maumela’s high-value vehicles, which are collectively valued at over R223 million. These included a spectacular fleet of exotic cars such as:

• Lamborghini Urus Aventador SVJ
• Lamborghini Huracan STO
• Lamborghini Aventador Ultimate Coupe
• Lamborghini Urus
• Bentley Continental GT V8

This action follows successful asset preservation steps taken earlier by the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU), targeting properties in high-end areas like Bantry Bay (purchased at R75 million) and various locations in Gauteng, including Sandhurst and Hurlingham.

The SIU is pursuing civil litigation to recover the total lost funds, with the complete investigation anticipated to be finalised by November 2027.