The 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 SA’s identity system for profit.

Aluwani Netshidaulu and Nthombifuthi Mokwebo, appeared in the Protea Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday after being arrested during a takedown operation. 

Moneyweb reports that they face charges of racketeering, corruption, fraud and contravention of the Immigration Act.

NPA regional spokesperson Magaboke Mohlatlole said investigators uncovered an alleged scheme in which the identity details of SA citizens were paired with photographs of foreign nationals to facilitate the unlawful issuance of passports.

According to Mohlatlole, foreign nationals allegedly paid between R50 000 and R100 000 for fraudulent passports.

Home Affairs officials implicated in the scheme were allegedly paid R10 000 to R15 000 per application, while SA citizens who allowed their details to be used received R500.

‘The 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,’ Mohlatlole added. 

Moneyweb reports that Pakistani national Arfan Ahmad, previously convicted and serving a 14‑year sentence for related offences, also appeared in court alongside the two officials.

Ahmad is alleged to have maintained corrupt ties with Home Affairs staff. Netshidaulu and Mokwebo were released on R5 000 bail each, with the matter postponed to 4 November to allow Ahmad to secure legal representation and for further investigations.  

Full Moneyweb report