Nine suspects in court for money laundering
Two suspects are out on bail while another two are still at large.
On Friday December 2, nine suspects were arrested in Mpumalanga in connection with alleged money laundering activities, following a comprehensive investigation into their financial activities.
The nine appeared in court on Tuesday, December 6.
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The family of former field ranger Chikwa David Maluleke – Joyce Maluleke (51), Stephinah Mbhombi (52), Oters Maluleke (27), Miyelani Maluleke (29) and Nkhesane Maluleke (22) – were released on R5 000 bail each.
The family of another former field ranger, Solly Ubisi – Thandi Makhuvele (37), Alsina Mkhonto (61), Ignatia Mnisi (36) and Given Mzimba (28) – were remanded in custody and their case was postponed to December 8 for further bail hearing.
According to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, the nine were arrested during a multidisciplinary integrated takedown operation dubbed ‘Blood Orange’ which was conducted in Mpumalanga, Gauteng and Limpopo provinces by the Mpumalanga-based Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation, Mpumalanga and Limpopo Serious Organised Crime Investigation and Serious Commercial Crime Investigation, Crime Intelligence, Tactical Response Team and Local Criminal Record Centre.
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KPMG was co-opted to do the financial investigation of the money flow into the suspects’ accounts. It is alleged that the two main accused, who were previously arrested on April 24 and charged with corruption, money laundering and fraud linked to wildlife trafficking, provided tactical information to rhino poaching syndicates in exchange for substantial sums of money. The money was allegedly transferred into the bank accounts of the accused family members.
Maluleke and Ubisi were released on bail by the Bushbuckridge Magistrate’s Court. Their case was postponed to January 27, 2023 for further investigation.
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The other two suspects are still at large.
Anyone with further information on the investigation is urged to contact the Hawks’ investigating officer, Colonel Danie Hall on 071 481 3281.
