Man Convicted for Smuggling Millions Faces R200,000 Forfeiture

Mohammed Ameen attempted to smuggle millions in cash out of South Africa, but authorities caught and convicted him.

The police arrested him at Cape Town International Airport in 2017 when he attempted to board a flight to Dubai with undeclared money. The court’s decision highlights South Africa’s strong stance against financial crime.

On October 11, 2017, customs officials received a tip-off and searched Ameen’s luggage. They found $544,200 and R2.96 million in cash. Ameen was about to board his flight when they arrested him.

Conviction and financial penalty

The Bellville Commercial Crimes Court convicted Ameen for violating the Currency and Exchanges Act and the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA).

He did not declare the money, as required by law for amounts over R25,000. When asked about the money, Ameen denied having it.

The court ruled that the money was likely linked to illegal activities. Ameen hid the origin and ownership of the cash.

In June 2018, the court forfeited the entire amount of $544,200 and R2.96 million. It also ordered Ameen to pay R200,000 into the Criminal Asset Recovery Account as a reflection of his personal gain from the crime.

Impact on the economy and further legal consequences

The State argued that Ameen’s actions caused harm to the economy. Prosecutors emphasized that Ameen had enough time to understand the unlawfulness of his actions. His illegal financial gain played a significant role in the court’s decision.

Adv. Nicolette Bell, the Western Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, praised the decision. She confirmed the National Prosecuting Authority’s commitment to fighting financial crimes.

“Eric Ntabazalila, NPA Regional spokesperson, said, “We aim to take criminals’ ill-gotten gains away.”

Additionally, the court declared Ameen unfit to possess a firearm due to the severity of his crimes.