A 43-year-old Zimbabwean national was arrested on December 8, 2025, after South African police uncovered a large stash of passports and cash during a traffic stop.
The arrest was made by a multidisciplinary team that included members from the Middelburg Flying Squad, the Nkangala District Anti-Hijacking Team, and the Waterval Boven SAPS. Authorities acted on a tip-off regarding a white Chevrolet Utility bakkie with Gauteng registration plates. The vehicle was intercepted around 1 PM.
Upon searching the bakkie, police discovered 582 passports, many of which contained cash hidden beneath a compartment. In addition, about R20,000 was found concealed in a black plastic bag. The total cash amount in the suspect’s possession came to approximately R147,300.
Investigators suggest that the suspect was likely planning to meet someone to have the passports stamped the following day. Police believe the recovered cash was intended for payment related to this activity.
The individual has been charged with multiple offenses, including contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa, fraud, and money laundering.
As part of the ongoing investigation, the bakkie used by the suspect has been confiscated for further study. Authorities are working to determine the full extent of the criminal activity linked to the passports and cash.
The suspect is set to appear at the Waterval Boven Periodical Court today, December 10, 2025, to face the charges against him.
Police continue to urge the public to report any suspicious activities that may indicate human trafficking or immigration irregularities.
