Church Buses & Border Crime: Hawks Investigate Illegal Cross-Border Trips

Church Buses and Border Concerns: Hawks Investigate Allegations of Illegal Cross-Border Activity

Recent reports indicate that South Africa’s Hawks law enforcement agency is investigating allegations concerning buses linked to a prominent Gauteng church, accused of operating across international borders without the necessary permits and potentially violating immigration and customs laws. The investigation stems from a tip-off received from a private investigator alleging systemic issues with the church’s transportation operations. This unfolding situation raises questions about border security, compliance with national regulations, and the oversight of religious organizations’ activities.

The allegations, detailed in a letter from private investigator Teenage Khumbe of Kumbes Intelligence Services Consultancy to the Hawks on February 6th, center around buses allegedly making numerous trips across the border, specifically into Zimbabwe, without proper documentation. Khumbe’s letter, seen by Daily Sun, expresses concern that previous reports to law enforcement agencies have not been adequately addressed. He claims these buses were “unroadworthy” and operating for commercial purposes although potentially violating the National Road Traffic Act, as well as the Immigration Act and the Customs and Excise Act. [1]

Khumbe detailed that he had previously provided evidence to the Hawks in November, complying with a request for physical and digital documentation supporting his claims. He sought clarification on the status of the investigation and any developments following his submission. He also stated that prior to contacting the Hawks, he raised concerns with border management regarding the buses’ lack of permits and the alleged transport of illegal immigrants. According to Khumbe, these buses completed over 20 trips while operating illegally and in a potentially unsafe condition. [1]

Hawks Respond, Citing Jurisdictional Issues

Responding to inquiries, Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo confirmed receipt of Khumbe’s tip-off. However, she indicated that the matter may not fall directly under the Hawks’ jurisdiction, stating that the case numbers referenced in the complaint relate to issues that are the responsibility of local police stations. [1] Mbambo added that a meeting requested by Khumbe on February 6th was addressed, and feedback was provided to the complainant. [1]

The church in question, through an unnamed spokesperson, has declined to comment at this time, stating they will await the completion of the law enforcement investigation. [1]

Understanding the Regulatory Framework

The allegations highlight the complex regulatory framework governing cross-border transportation and immigration. In South Africa, operating a bus service for commercial purposes requires adherence to several regulations. These include obtaining the necessary operating licenses from the relevant transport authorities, ensuring vehicle roadworthiness through regular inspections, and complying with immigration and customs requirements when crossing international borders.

The Immigration Act governs the entry and exit of individuals, requiring proper documentation and adherence to visa regulations. The Customs and Excise Act regulates the movement of goods across borders, including the declaration of goods and the payment of applicable duties and taxes. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines, penalties, and even criminal prosecution. You can find more information about South Africa’s immigration policies on the Department of Home Affairs website. [https://www.dha.gov.za/]

Confirmed vs. Unclear: Separating Fact from Allegation

Currently, the following is confirmed:

The Hawks received a tip-off from private investigator Teenage Khumbe regarding alleged illegal cross-border activity involving buses linked to a Gauteng church. [1]
Khumbe submitted evidence to the Hawks in November and followed up with a letter on February 6th seeking an update on the investigation. [1]
Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo confirmed receipt of the tip-off but indicated potential jurisdictional issues. [1]
The church has declined to comment pending the outcome of the investigation. [1]

The following remains unclear:

The identity of the church leader and the specific church involved has not been publicly released. [1]
The exact nature of the alleged violations of the National Road Traffic Act, Immigration Act, and Customs and Excise Act remains to be determined through investigation. [1]
The specific evidence submitted by Khumbe to the Hawks has not been publicly disclosed. [1]
Whether the buses were indeed transporting illegal immigrants, as alleged, has not been independently confirmed. [1]

Background: Previous Concerns Regarding Church Leadership

This situation occurs against a backdrop of previous scrutiny surrounding prominent South African church leaders. In February 2026, Prophet Shepherd Bushiri, a controversial figure, publicly responded to allegations made by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), dismissing them as a “witch-hunt.” [2] While this case is separate from the current investigation, it underscores the ongoing attention directed towards the financial and legal dealings of certain religious organizations in South Africa.

What Happens Next?

The next steps in this case will likely involve a thorough investigation by the relevant law enforcement authorities. This could include interviewing witnesses, examining documentation, and inspecting the buses in question. If evidence of wrongdoing is found, the authorities may pursue criminal charges against those responsible. The outcome of the investigation will depend on the strength of the evidence gathered and the applicable legal provisions. It remains to be seen whether this case will lead to further scrutiny of the operations of religious organizations in South Africa and potentially prompt calls for stricter regulations.

[1] News24. “Hawks arrest judge and church leader over alleged bribe in succession battle.” The Herald, February 29, 2026. https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMivgFBVV95cUxOSFBDRGF0S1pZb08wTHdqWUhiUENNYUc2RU8zbXlrX29KWGh0ZkJzX094dC1YVGtkNTdBc1BoNEFXWVZUZl9KQThMbFZYQTBHeFNodXlFNVg1ejJiUnp5WnZnNjZmYURtZEZqT0RQTkptZ2FqQkc1SnNvbXlVQTJwLXNqOU5nQ25RMXZrTjgyWXh5Vll1VUJyczdERUU0NHBKdkg4eUlOOUVlUWdfTzJjNVJReW16RVptLXJhSm1n?oc=5

[2] BBC News. “US pastor Josh Sullivan kidnapped during church service in South Africa.” BBC News, February 28, 2026. https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiWkFVX3lxTE8wV3ptNjM3VGdfbHhxMUVNZTNMU1pLMFhnR3duM256RDlpazhxcXpTdGp2SEdNS3p4aU9vVHgwdV9BYkdfT1JIQ3I2UFJGNlhTQ2lhand0MENYQQ?oc=5

[3] Agence de Presse Africaine. “South African judge held in church succession bribery case.” APAnews, February 28, 2026. https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMihgFBVV95cUxOSC1CZTZJZUNNTzVxb2ZiRFYzZDR4cUtJX0tSeWRrRV9TQlhhQUlTVDZzMVlYMEFrQl84dnNQNUdCSk02TlA0TWFxeTQ1TmRCdWF4VGduTjcxZHAxeUxrQ1NZR3hsSnk1NUhXTnM3LWNGLVFrWldxcEE4bXQyd254T2hHZ2dDdw?oc=5