Thursday, March 6, 2025 - The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, also known as the Hawks, has arrested a Nigerian man, Benjamin Stanley Okwudili for possession of precious metals.
Gauteng spokesperson for the Hawks, Lieutenant Colonel Lloyd Ramovha,
who confirmed this in a statement on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, said Okwudili
was arrested at Linbro Park, Sandton, after being found in possession of
suspected precious metals estimated at R50 million.
Ramovha said the Hawks’ Johannesburg Serious Organised Crime
Investigation (SOCI) conducted a “diligent” intelligence-driven operation
regarding contravention of the Precious Metals Act on February 27, resulting in
the arrest.
“The operation was executed following critical information about
palladium unlawfully stored at a residence on 1st Road, Linbro Park. Acting
promptly, the team proceeded to the identified location. Upon arrival, they
encountered a Nigerian male, Mr. Benjamin Stanley Okwudili,” said Ramovha.
The officers introduced themselves and requested permission to search
the premises, which the Hawks say was granted.
“Despite finding no illegal items within the house, a thorough search of
the garage revealed a gold suitcase wrapped in clear cling wrap. Upon
inspection, the suitcase was discovered to contain approximately 90 kg of
silver stones, suspected to be palladium, with an estimated value of R50
million,” said Ramovha.
Palladium is a silver-white metal that resembles platinum. It's used in many types of manufacturing processes, particularly for electronics and industrial products.
When questioned about the suitcase, the Hawks said Okwudili stated he
had received it from the Congo and was expecting a buyer to collect it.
“However, he failed to produce any documentation authorising his
possession of such minerals,” said Ramovha.
Consequently, the SA Police Service’s Local Criminal Record Centre was
summoned to the scene for further processing.
Okwudili,
55, was then arrested. He was detained at Sandringham police station after
being charged.
The Nigerian national appeared before the Johannesburg Magistrate's
Court on Monday, where the case was postponed to March 10 for confirmation of
Okwudili’s status in South Africa.
Meanwhile, Gauteng provincial head of the Hawks, Major General Ebrahim
Kadwa has welcomed Okwudili’s arrest.
"This operation serves as a stern warning to all dealers in
precious metals: adherence to the law is non-negotiable. Authorities will take
decisive action against any individuals or entities found in violation of the
Precious Metals Act," he said.
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