SA man arrested for attempting to smuggle R419,000 into Eswatini! A South African man, Khayalethu Cable Majola, has been arrested after he allegedly attempted to cross the Eswatini border illegally while carrying over R419,000 in cash hidden inside a plastic bag.
The arrest took place in Mpumalanga, where local police intercepted Majola before he could make his way into Eswatini.
Suspicious Attempt to Cross the Border
According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Magonseni Nkosi, Majola was stopped by border officials while attempting to enter Eswatini without following the proper customs declaration process.
“When arrested, Majola failed to explain the source of the money and could not give a clear explanation of why he did not declare the money at customs,” Nkosi stated.
The large sum of cash, which amounted to R419,000, immediately raised suspicions among law enforcement officers, leading to his arrest.
Charges of Possession of Stolen Property and Corruption
Following his arrest, Majola was charged with possession of suspected stolen property and corruption.
The corruption charge was added after he allegedly attempted to bribe law enforcement officers in exchange for his release.
Nkosi confirmed that Majola offered gratification to officials, hoping to secure his freedom, but the officers refused to accept the bribe.
“We commend the members who intercepted the suspect and acted honestly by not accepting gratification,” said Mpumalanga Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Major General Nico Gerber.
Money Seized and Forfeited to the State
Following Majola’s arrest, the police launched an investigation into the origin of the cash.
The case was handed over to the Hawks’ Nelspruit-based Priority Crime Specialised Investigation Unit for further inquiry.
Investigators applied for a preservation order, which was granted by the Division of the High Court in Mbombela.
As a result, the R419,000 was forfeited to the State, reinforcing the message that crime does not pay.
Bail Granted, but Investigation Continues
Despite the serious charges, Majola was granted bail and has since been released from custody while awaiting further legal proceedings.
Authorities have not yet disclosed whether additional suspects are involved in the case or if the money was linked to a larger criminal operation.
Government’s Stand Against Smuggling and Corruption
The South African government has taken a firm stance against illegal financial activities, particularly those involving money laundering, cross-border smuggling, and corruption.
Major General Nico Gerber emphasized the importance of law enforcement integrity, praising the officers who refused to be bribed.
“The preservation order and subsequent forfeiture send a clear message to criminals that crime does not pay,” he said.
Authorities are now investigating whether Majola’s case is part of a larger network of illegal financial transactions, which could involve smuggling, fraud, or money laundering.
Border Security Under Scrutiny
Majola’s case has once again highlighted concerns over border security and illegal crossings between South Africa and Eswatini.
Smuggling of cash, goods, and other illicit items remains a challenge for law enforcement, prompting calls for stricter border control measures.
Officials have urged travelers to adhere to customs regulations and declare large sums of money when crossing international borders.
What Happens Next?
With the investigation ongoing, authorities are working to determine the true origin of the money and whether Majola acted alone or as part of a larger syndicate.
He is expected to appear in court again as the Hawks continue their probe into the case.
For now, the seizure of the funds serves as a stern warning to others who may attempt similar illegal activities at the country’s borders.
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