Orlando Pirates seek court protection for funds amid financial investigation

Orlando Pirates have confirmed they approached the High Court to preserve funds linked to transactions being investigated by the club, including alleged payments involving former finance manager Darryl Joselowsky.

The Betway Premiership champions said the court application forms part of a forensic investigation into what they describe as suspicious financial activity. The development comes as Pirates prepare for next Saturday’s MTN8 final.

According to the club’s investigation, R20.2 million in payments was allegedly diverted without authorisation into accounts controlled by Joselowsky, who previously served as Pirates’ finance manager.

The wider transaction records allegedly identified R43 million transferred from Pirates’ accounts into four flagged Standard Bank accounts between September 2016 and August 2026.

The forensic review also reportedly found 742 payments totalling R8.5 million in which the descriptions of the payments falsely identified the beneficiaries.

Pirates stressed that the court application was intended as a precautionary measure while the transactions are examined. The club said it should not be regarded as a finding of wrongdoing against the person involved.

“The Club has asked the High Court to preserve funds linked to certain financial transactions while those transactions are investigated. This is a precautionary step to protect the Club’s funds during the process,” Pirates said in a statement.

The club added that the individual concerned was co-operating with the investigation and reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the process was conducted fairly.

“The application is not a finding of wrongdoing and should not be interpreted as one. The individual concerned is cooperating, and the Club is committed to a fair process for everyone involved.”

Pirates also sought to reassure supporters, partners and sponsors that the issue had not disrupted the club’s normal activities or its preparations for the season ahead.

“Our supporters, partners and sponsors can be assured that the Club’s day-to-day operations and commitments continue as normal. Our focus remains on the team and the season ahead.”

The club has now declined to provide further details while the matter is before the courts.

Pirates said: “We will provide updates when we are able to do so.”