A multidisciplinary police team arrested a Zimbabwean national after finding 582 passports and a large amount of cash hidden inside his vehicle during an operation in Mpumalanga.

The 43-year-old suspect, who was arrested on Monday, is set to appear in court this week.

Police said they made the arrest after receiving information about a white Chevrolet Utility bakkie with Gauteng registration plates.

They alleged that the suspect was using the vehicle for illegal activities.

The Middelburg Flying Squad, the Nkangala District Anti-Hijacking Team, and the Waterval Boven SAPS intercepted the vehicle on 8 December 2025 around 13:00.

Officers searched the bakkie and uncovered a stash of 582 passports, many with banknotes tucked inside. Police said the passports were hidden underneath a compartment.

The passports belonged to Zimbabwean, Mozambican and Malawian nationals.

Officers also found about R20 000 wrapped in a black plastic bag. Additional notes pushed the total seized cash to approximately R147 300.

Police believe the driver was on his way to meet someone to have the documents fraudulently processed. “Investigation thus far suggests that the driver was probably going to meet someone the next day to have the passports stamped,” the statement reads. Officers added that they are “of the view that the recovered cash was meant for payment.”

Possible passport-stamping operation uncovered

Authorities suspect the passports were part of a larger illegal immigration and fraud scheme. Police confiscated the bakkie used by the suspect for further investigation. They are working to establish the extent of the operation and identify other potential suspects.

Suspect faces multiple charges

The Zimbabwean national faces charges of contravening the Immigration Act, fraud, and money laundering.

He is expected to appear in the Waterval Boven Periodical Court on 10 December, where he will be formally charged.

Police praised the collaboration that led to the arrest. They described the team’s work as the effort of astute members who acted swiftly on reliable information.