Durban police arrest suspect in ID fraud syndicate

The net around corrupt home affairs officials in Durban is tightening

Police in Durban have arrested a man suspected of being involved in Identity documents fraud. The suspect was arrested in a surburb south of Durban last night.

The man was in possession of scores of ID's, passports and other documents. He also had a stamp similar to those used by immigration officials. Police believe he is part of a syndicate that produces fake birth certificates, marriage certificate and other documents.

Police say his name is not known because he had three Identity documents with different names and different dates of birth. Police say the man has twice reported to home affairs officials that he was dead. He faces 39 charges including fraud, corruption and defeating the ends of justice.

The investigation into the activities of the syndicate was carried out by members of the organised crime unit, Home Affairs officials and immigration authorities. Police expect to make more arrests soon.