The involvement of law enforcement authorities who turn a blind eye to incidents of money laundering is fuelling the crime.
According to a June 2021 report compiled by law enforcement agencies titled, coordination about anti-money laundering and counter financing of terrorism, there is huge corruption happening at OR Tambo International Airport in Kempton Park, on the East Rand.
The report outlines challenges and strategies that should be implemented to address illicit financial flows (IFFs) in the country.
It shows how non-governmental organisations (NGOs), unregistered spaza shops and churches have become conduits for the illegal movement of money from SA to other countries when these funds have been illegally earned.
The report was compiled by the South African Police Service, Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), Financial Intelligence Centre, Financial Sector Conduct Authority, State Security Agency, Special Investigating Unit, South African Reserve Bank, South African Revenue Service and the National Prosecuting Authority.
“Corruption at OR Tambo International Airport, which is the site of extensive smuggling of cash, is a huge challenge that must be addressed urgently... The focus on the role of the illicit economy in driving IFFs should be expanded to include the illicit movement of money from the NGO sector, unregistered churches and spaza shops,” read the report.
The report further found that weak border controls and corruption by law enforcement officers perpetuated IFFs.
“Airports and border posts are predominantly used for the illicit flow of funds in and out of the country. For geographical reasons, the borders of some countries are impossible to police comprehensively.
“A lack of strict border control, especially at our land borders, makes it very easy to smuggle and legitimately export illicit products.
“Enforcement and controls are undermined — whenever the authorities are prepared to turn a blind eye if the price is right, thus encouraging the offer of bribes to the local border guards, customs officers and more senior government officials. Law enforcement officials are aware of the criminal activities, aiding and abetting.”
kokam@sowetan.co.za
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