A local crime-fighter was taken into police custody on Monday morning (March 9) following accusations of being in the country illegally.

Newcastle SAPS Corporate Communications spokesperson Lizzy Arumugam confirmed the arrest.

Fraud investigation linked to Immigration Act

Arumugam explained that Newcastle police are investigating a case of fraud related to the Immigration Act and an alleged illegal immigrant.

“The accused was arrested in January 2026 for an unrelated case. During case preparation, the investigating officer discovered that the accused’s identity number had been blocked by Home Affairs,” she said.

Reports by an online media outlet that ‘falsified documentation was discovered after the accused’s home was searched’ are incorrect, according to Arumugam.

Arumugam clarified that the accused was arrested at his home and no search of the premises was conducted.

“The arrest followed a tip-off received during an investigation linked to another case involving the accused,” she explained.

Expected to appear in court

The accused has not yet been formally charged. He is expected to appear in the Newcastle District Court tomorrow (March 11).

Investigations are ongoing.

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