Lesotho nationals with over R1.4m in cash arrested at border post
Four suspects who were arrested at a border post had previously been banned from entering South Africa under the Immigration Act.
The commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, has commended the interception of five Lesotho nationals who were in the country illegally and in possession of over R1.4m in cash at the Lesotho border post (Qashasnek).
The cash was concealed in plastic bags.
The arrests were made during a joint operation by the BMA, members of the South African National Defence Force and the SAPS after a vehicle was stopped and searched as part of a routine check during an operation between South Africa and Lesotho last Tuesday.
Five Lesotho nationals were in the vehicle. Four were found to be previously declared undesirable and had been banned from entering the country in terms of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002, the BMA said on Saturday.
The suspects were searched and had South African currency worth R1 480 050 in their possession.
“The four, who did not have the requisite documents, were arrested for being in South Africa illegally and a case was opened. The money, which was counted and underwent counterfeit verifications, was then deposited into the state bank account pending further investigations.”
The commissioner commended the BMA officials.
“As the commissioner of the BMA, I am committed to ensuring the safety and security of our nation. To this end, we have adopted a zero-tolerance approach to criminal activities at our ports of entry.
“We will rigorously enforce the law and take decisive action against any illegal activities to maintain the integrity of our borders. The junior border guards continue to display great effort in protecting our country. Their dedication and hard work are vital in maintaining the safety and integrity of our nation,” Masiapato said. – SAnews.gov.za
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