SANDF members aged between 29 & 51 arrested for allegedly assisting in smuggling stolen cars into Zimbabwe

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South African Police Service (SAPS) have finally made an arrest in an alleged case of fraud against 7 South African Defense Force (SANDF) members.

NPA Spokesperson Mashudu Dzangi said that the Rapula Reuben Maidi (49) from Ikageng, Edward Lepokola (48) from Sebokeng, Bulelani Danti (29) from King Wiliams Town, Ludwe Gwedashe from Port Elizabeth, Thembani Mjelo (31) from East London, Marks Funeka (49) from Carletonville, Peter Thato Namane (51) from Soshanguve were arrested on 21 and 22 June 2021 for allegedly assisting criminals in crossing stolen vehicles to Zimbabwe.

Authorities said that over the past year, the soldiers allegedly accepted bribes of R 15 000 to allow stolen cars to cross the border to Zimbabwe.

This criminal act came to light after a tipoff that was made to the Hawks about the said SANDF members who were smuggling cars through Limpopo River.

An undercover operation consisting of military police and the Hawks ensued, subsequently, the suspects were apprehended.

They are set to make another appearance in court on June 28 for formal bail application.