In the statement made by the BMA, it was stated that the German suspect was first caught in Turkey while traveling with a fake Israeli passport.

He was extradited to South Africa on 8 November 2024.

Agency spokeswoman Mmemme Mogotsi said that during the subsequent investigation, authorities noticed that the suspect had a German accent despite claiming to be an Israeli citizen.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) was contacted and confirmed through the Embassy that the suspect was not an Israeli citizen.

“Following further investigation by BMA officials, Interpol was contacted and it was revealed that the suspect was on the most wanted list and had been evading arrest for drug trafficking for the past eight years. “It was also revealed that the suspect had an international arrest warrant, was living in Malawi under a new identity, and had temporary residence in Malawi.”

It was stated that the suspect was traveling with both German and Israeli passports and was suspected of stealing his Israeli identity.

“Interpol immediately arrested the suspect and he remains in custody awaiting extradition to Germany,” Mogotsi said.

Border Management Authority Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato praised the vigilance and professionalism of the officials involved.

“This intervention underlines the critical role the BMA plays in protecting South Africa’s ports of entry and cooperating with international security agencies to combat international crime. “Our robust systems and partnerships with Interpol and other global organizations have proven indispensable in preserving the security and integrity of our nation.”

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