Johannesburg – A 42-year-old Ford Ranger Raptor driver found with over one million rand concealed in shoe-boxes has been arrested along the N3 near the Tugela Plaza.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the suspect was “unable to provide a satisfactory account for the source of the money”.
At the time of the arrest, police were following up on information that the suspect was transporting illicit drugs.
“During the search of his Ford Ranger Raptor on the N3 near the Tugela Plaza, police discovered more than R1.1 million in cash concealed in shoe boxes,” Brigadier Mathe said.
“Police seized the Ford Ranger Raptor, a privately licensed firearm, a cellphone and a laptop for further investigation.”
She said all in all, the South African Police Service (SAPS) Gauteng Counter Intelligence Operations arrested three suspects in connection with money laundering and corruption.
“While being interrogated, the suspect allegedly attempted to bribe the investigating officer,” said Brigadier Mathe.
She said Gauteng Counter Intelligence Operations immediately activated an entrapment operation, resulting in the arrest of two other suspects who allegedly attempted to bribe police officers with R200 000.
The other two suspects were travelling in a VW Amarok.
“The R200 000 was also seized, and the suspects’ VW Amarok was also confiscated,” said Brigadier Mathe.
All three suspects are facing charges that include money laundering and corruption.
All three suspects are facing charges that include money laundering and corruption.
The 42-year-old suspect is expected to appear before the Ladysmith Magistrate’s Court.
Brigadier Mathe said the other two suspects arrested during the entrapment operation have already appeared before the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 14 August 2026.
