A multidisciplinary team on patrol duties on the N12 route under the bridge at the Delmas off-ramp, found a plastic bag containing unwrought gold in a vehicle during a random stop and search.

The law enforcers spotted and pulled over a white Toyota Fortuner without registration plates. The estimated street value of the precious metal found in the vehicle, is R800 000.

Three Mozambican, between the ages of 24 and 34, were arrested on the spot for possession of unwrought gold and for failing to produce valid documentation to be in the country.

According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane, a fourth foreigner (27) approached the police at the Delmas Police Station where the suspects were being charge.

He allegedly offered one of the officers a bribe of R5000 to secure the release of his brothers, who were arrested earlier. He was arrested on the spot for bribing a police officer and charged with bribery.

The four men are expected to appear at Delmas Magistrate’s Court December 15, facing the said charges.

The acting provincial commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, has commended the members for their exceptional work and dedication.

He also warned foreign nationals that Mpumalanga will not tolerate any criminal activities.

“We are pleased with the success of this operation and the efforts of our members in preventing and combating crime. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that those who break the law are brought to book and tried.

“We urge all members of the community to report any information about crime to the police, and to work with us to create a safer and more secure environment for all individuals, particularly during the festive season,” concluded Mkhwanazi.

ALSO READ: Police arrest foreign national in Bethal for drugs