A Border Management Authority official has been arrested in Ladybrand after allegedly being found with 22 stamped passports and R2,100 in cash.

According to an official BMA statement, the 56-year-old official is stationed at the Maseru Port of Entry and was arrested during a joint intelligence-led operation involving the BMA, Home Affairs, SAPS and Free State Crime Intelligence.

SABC News also reported that the investigation followed information from the State Security Agency about passports belonging to Lesotho nationals that were being monitored.

Passports Allegedly Transported for Stamping

The BMA said investigators received information that the passports had allegedly been moved from Limpopo to Ladybrand.

Authorities suspect the documents were stamped without the passport holders being physically present, allegedly allowing their visa validity and stay in South Africa to be extended.

According to SABC News, the official was allegedly found in possession of 22 stamped passports during the operation.

The BMA said R2,100 in cash was also recovered.

Official Expected in Court

The suspect is expected to appear in the Ladybrand Magistrate’s Court.

According to the BMA, the charges relate to corruption, possession of passports without lawful authority and immigration-related offences.

The authority said the investigation remains ongoing and further arrests are possible.

The allegations have not yet been tested in court.

BMA Targets Internal Corruption

The arrest comes as the BMA intensifies action against alleged misconduct within its ranks.

EWN reported earlier in October that 17 BMA officials had been dismissed as part of the authority’s anti-corruption drive.

BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato said the organisation was also dealing with several disciplinary matters involving alleged fraud, corruption and internal control breaches.

The BMA said it would continue working with law-enforcement and security agencies to investigate suspected wrongdoing at South Africa’s ports of entry.