Police arrested a 49-year-old suspect in Tonga, Nkomazi, on Sunday, 16 March, after they found him in possession of approximately R1.2 million in cash.
Tip-off about unlicensed firearm leads to arrest
According to IOL, Provincial Police Spokesperson in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane, said they made the arrest after receiving a tip-off about an unlicensed firearm.
This arrest forms part of the ongoing Operation Vala Umgodi, a regional crime prevention initiative.
They then responded swiftly and followed the information and upon arrival at Tonga View, they found the owner of the house and conducted a search.
It was during that time when they discovered the large sum of money hidden under the bed as well as inside the wardrobe.
The currency consisted mainly of South African notes and coins, with a portion also made up of Mozambican currency.
In addition to the large sum of money, the suspect allegedly attempted to bribe officers with R50,000 in an effort to evade arrest
However, law enforcement officials swiftly thwarted his attempts and pounced on him, securing the operation’s success.
Police confiscated the money from the house and said it will form part of the investigation.
Suspect faces multiple charges
The suspect now faces multiple serious charges, including money laundering and bribing police officers.
He is also charged with violating the Prevention of Organised Crime Act and the Tax Administration Act.
The man is expected to appear before the Nkomazi Magistrate’s Court in Tonga in the near future.
According to AfricanInsider, the Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, commended the efforts of the Operation Vala Umgodi team.
He praised their dedication to tackling crime throughout the province.
Preliminary investigations have revealed that the suspect owns a company involved in the clearing of commercial goods.
Authorities are now investigating whether he used his business to facilitate money laundering activities.
This significant operation highlights the continued success of police efforts to combat organised crime and corruption in the region.
What are your thoughts on the effectiveness of Operation Vala Umgodi in reducing organised crime in Mpumalanga?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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