A MAN who was allegedly found travelling with R1.1 million in cash “hidden” in shoe boxes in his vehicle is expected to apply for bail in the Ladysmith Magistrate’s Court today (Wednesday).
Rouwellyn Moodley, 42, was arrested on suspicion of money laundering and corruption by members of the South African Police Service’s Gauteng Counter Intelligence Operations (GCI-OPS) on August 12.
He appeared in court on August 14, and was remanded in custody after the court postponed the matter for a formal bail application.
It is believed that while police officers interrogated Moodley after arresting him on the N3 near the Tugela Plaza, he attempted to offer them a bribe.
Lueallen Reddy, 45, and Taahir Moola, 38, who were at a separate location, were arrested for allegedly attempting to follow through with bribe to police officers with R200,000.
Both men were charged with corruption and bribery, and appeared in the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court, Johannesburg, on August 13.
They were granted R30,000 bail each and their matter was adjourned to a date in October for further investigation.
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the SAPS’ Gauteng spokesperson, said that at the time of the arrest, GCI-OPS was following up on information that a suspect was transporting drugs.
She said that during the search of his (Moodley) Ford Ranger Raptor on the N3, police discovered more than R1.1 million in cash concealed in shoe boxes.
“He was unable to provide a satisfactory account for the source of the money. Police seized the Ford Range Raptor, a privately licensed firearm, a cellphone and a laptop for further investigation.”
Mathe said while being interrogated, Moodley allegedly attempted to bribe the investigating officer.
“GCI-OPS immediately activated an entrapment operation, resulting in the arrest of two additional suspects (Reddy and Moola) who allegedly attempted to bribe police officers with R200,000.”
She said the R200,000 was seized along with their vehicle, a VW Amarok.
“The SAPS welcomes this operation as a clear demonstration that police officers will not be intimidated, compromised or bought. Attempts to bribe members of the SAPS would be met with decisive action and will result in criminal charges.”
Mathe added that GCI-OPS will continue to pursue individuals involved in the movement of illicit proceeds and attempts to undermine law enforcement through corruption.
“No amount of money will deter the SAPS from pursuing criminals or corrupt individuals who seek to interfere with police investigations.”
