Tonga Man Arrested Following R1.2 Million Cash Seizure

A 49-year-old man in Tonga was arrested after Mpumalanga SAPS seized over R1.2 million in cash. The arrest occurred during Operation Vala Umgodi when officers executed a house search upon receiving a tip regarding an unlicensed firearm. The suspect attempted to bribe the police with R50,000 but was denied, leading to his apprehension on multiple charges.

In a significant operation, a 49-year-old man was apprehended by the Mpumalanga South African Police Service (SAPS) in Tonga on March 16, 2025, following a tip-off regarding an unlicensed firearm. Upon raiding his residence as part of Operation Vala Umgodi, police discovered more than R1.2 million in cash hidden within the premises, including under a mattress and in a wardrobe.

The suspect attempted to bribe the officers with a sum of R50,000 as he realized his impending arrest, but these efforts failed. Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane stated, “The money was confiscated from the scene and will form part of our investigations.” Subsequently, the man was arrested and faces multiple charges, such as money laundering, bribery, and violations of the Tax Administration Act.

Following his arrest, the suspect is scheduled to appear in the Tonga Magistrate’s Court imminently. This operation underscores the ongoing commitment of SAPS to combat crime and uphold the law in the region, demonstrating their efficacy in handling cases of serious nature without succumbing to bribery attempts.

In summary, the arrest of a 49-year-old man in Tonga by Mpumalanga SAPS highlights the police force’s diligence in combating criminal activities. With over R1.2 million seized and the suspect facing several charges, including bribery and money laundering, the incident illustrates the serious implications of unlawful financial dealings and the importance of integrity within law enforcement.

Original Source: www.citizen.co.za