Hawks Arrest Malawian National Fugitive  After Absconding In 2021 Oil Theft Bribery Case

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commonly known as the Hawks, have arrested 46-year-old Lazarus Kenneth Wankhama, a Malawian national wanted on charges of corruption and contravening South Africa’s Immigration Act.

According to provincial Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Sibu Ncane, Wankhama was apprehended on Sunday by Hawks members based in Durban.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Beata Bena Green Sets Her Sights On The Prestigious And Promising Miss SA 2025 Crown

His arrest ends a nearly four-year manhunt after he disappeared during the investigation into a serious organised crime case.

R50,000 Bribe Offered In Crude Oil Theft Case

Wankhama was initially arrested in September 2021 by the Hawks’ serious organised crime investigation unit in Newcastle for his alleged involvement in the theft of crude oil.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Winter Wellness – Protect Your Family By Boosting Their Immunity And Preventing Flu

During his detention, it is alleged that he attempted to bribe officers with R50,000 in exchange for his release.

“The police swiftly initiated an undercover operation, leading to his arrest and the recovery of R49,900 in trap money,” said Ncane.

The case was then transferred to the Hawks’ serious corruption investigation unit in Durban for further handling.

Although the charges were provisionally withdrawn pending further investigation, Wankhama absconded when the case was due to return to court, prompting the issuance of a warrant for his arrest.

Court Appearance, Bail Hearing Scheduled

Wankhama finally appeared before the Newcastle Magistrate’s Court on Monday, a day after his arrest.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Healthy Weight Loss After Pregnancy – New Mom’s Guide To Losing Baby Weight

The matter has been remanded to Thursday for a formal bail application.

KwaZulu-Natal Hawks head, Major General Lesetja Senona, praised the investigative team for their dedication and persistence.

Senona said, “This arrest and the ongoing investigation exemplify the Hawks’ unwavering commitment to rooting out corruption and ensuring that justice is served.”

---

For SA Crime News Follow SurgeZirc SA on Facebook,  X and Instagram