Bushiri accused of money laundering in South Africa, Hawks launch investigation

The police’s elite crime-fighting unit, the Hawks, is investigating charismatic prophet Shepherd Bushiri for money laundering after members of the church leadership claimed he was sending an estimated R15-million a month to Malawi.

The money is allegedly transported out of South Africa in Bushiri’s private jet and other vehicles.

Hawks spokesman Hangwani Mulaudzi confirmed they have launched a money laundering probe into the Major One, as Bushiri calls himself, but did not confirm the amounts.

“The matter has been brought to our attention. However, it is still in its infancy stage. It is against our policy to divulge information on any of our investigations,” said Mulaudzi.

Bushiri, who runs the charismatic Enlightened Christian Gathering church that has several branches in the country and in other southern African countries, could not be reached for comment yesterday.

His lawyer Bright Rikhotso said he could not comment as he was not aware of the probe.

A Hawks official told Sunday World that Bushiri became a person of interest after witnesses in the church leadership came forward with information.

The official said the church leaders who came forward said the church spirits away about R15-million every month.

Source: Sowetan live