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A 49-year-old man has been arrested on charges of money laundering after police discovered approximately R1.2 million in cash hidden in his home.
Provincial police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane, said the man was apprehended on 16 March 2025 in Tonga near Komatipoort during an operation under Operation Vala Umgodi. The suspect also allegedly attempted to bribe police officers with R50,000 after the money was found.
Police received a tip-off about a man allegedly in possession of an unlicensed firearm. Officers swiftly responded and searched the suspect’s home in Tonga View. During the search, they discovered large sums of money hidden under a bed, inside a wardrobe, and in a separate bag.
“The suspect attempted to bribe police officials with R50,000, but his efforts failed dismally,” said Ndubane.
The confiscated money, which included Mozambican currency, will form part of the investigation.
The suspect faces multiple charges, including money laundering, bribery, contravening the Prevention of Organised Crime Act, and violating the Tax Administration Act. Police investigations have also revealed that his company is involved in the business of clearing commercial goods.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Nkomazi Magistrate’s Court in Tonga soon.
Meanwhile, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, acting provincial commissioner of police in Mpumalanga, has praised the officers involved in Operation Vala Umgodi for their dedication in combating crime in the province.
