Man Arrested in Tonga for Bribery and Money Laundering Amidst Police Operation
A 49-year-old man was arrested in Tonga, Mpumalanga, with more than R1.2 million in cash and attempted to bribe police with R50,000. He faces several charges related to money laundering and bribery after police discovered cash hidden in his home during a search operation.
Police in Mpumalanga arrested a 49-year-old man on March 16, 2025, who was found with more than R1.2 million in cash and an undisclosed sum in Mozambican meticais. The arrest occurred after officers received a tip-off regarding the possession of an unlicensed firearm. During the operation, officers searched the suspect’s residence in Tonga View and instead discovered a significant amount of cash hidden in various locations within the home.
As officers proceeded with their investigation, they found money concealed under a mattress and in a wardrobe, along with a bag filled with cash. Realizing he was about to be apprehended, the suspect attempted to bribe law enforcement officials with R50,000, an effort that ultimately proved unsuccessful.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane, a representative for the provincial police, the seized money will be integral to their investigations. The suspect now faces charges that include money laundering, bribery of a police officer, and violation of the Tax Administration Act, among other allegations. He is anticipated to appear in court shortly.
The swift action by Mpumalanga police led to the arrest of a suspect in possession of over R1.2 million and other illicit funds. His attempts to bribe the officers were unsuccessful, leading to multiple serious charges against him. The ongoing investigation is critical in addressing issues of money laundering and firearm regulation in the region.
Original Source: www.citizen.co.za
