<\/p>\n
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) says the arrest of two Home Affairs officials accused of selling fraudulent passports marks a decisive step in dismantling a criminal syndicate that has exploited South Africa\u2019s identity system for profit.<\/p>\n
Two officials, Aluwani Andries Netshidaulu and Nthombifuthi Phyllis Mokwebo, appeared before the Protea Magistrate\u2019s Court on Wednesday, 30 September 2026, after being arrested during a takedown operation under Project Humulani.<\/p>\n
Charges<\/p>\n
They face charges of racketeering, corruption, fraud and contravention of the Immigration Act.<\/p>\n
NPA regional spokesperson Magaboke Mohlatlole explained how the scheme operated.<\/p>\n
\u201cInvestigators uncovered an alleged scheme in which the identity details of South African citizens were paired with photographs of foreign nationals to facilitate the unlawful issuance of passports,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
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Scheme<\/p>\n
According to Mohlatlole, foreign nationals allegedly paid between R50 000 and R100 000 for fraudulent passports.<\/p>\n
Home Affairs officials implicated in the scheme were allegedly paid R10 000 to R15 000 per application, while South African citizens who allowed their details to be used received R500.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe investigation has already resulted in the seizure of luxury vehicles and the blocking and cancellation of several hundred passports believed to have been fraudulently obtained,\u201d Mohlatlole added.<\/p>\n
Pakistani<\/p>\n
Pakistani national Arfan Ahmad, previously convicted and serving a 14\u2011year sentence for related offences, also appeared in court alongside the two officials. Ahmad is alleged to have maintained corrupt ties with Home Affairs staff.<\/p>\n
Both Netshidaulu and Mokwebo were released on R5 000 bail each, with the matter postponed to 4 November 2026 to allow Ahmad to secure legal representation and for further investigations.<\/p>\n
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Investigations<\/p>\n
Mohlatlole emphasised that the probe is far from over.<\/p>\n
\u201cInvestigations remain ongoing, and additional arrests are expected as authorities pursue other individuals allegedly linked to the syndicate,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
The NPA welcomed the progress, reaffirming its commitment to dismantling organised criminal networks that undermine the integrity of South Africa\u2019s systems and institutions.<\/p>\n
The article was first published here.<\/p>\n
#Home #Affairs #passport #fraud #NPA #drags #officials #court #syndicate #crackdown<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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