T wo high-ranking South African Police Service officials have appeared in court following their arrest in connection with an alleged illicit gold operation tied to a 2021 incident at OR Tambo International Airport.

Major General Ebrahim Kadwa and Major General Feroz Khan were arrested over the weekend by the Political Killings Task Team alongside Durban businessman Tariq Downes.

The trio appeared before the Kempton Park Magistrates Court on Monday, where each was granted bail of R20,000.

Authorities allege the case stems from an incident in May 2021 when Downes was allegedly caught at OR Tambo International Airport in possession of unwrought gold.

According to investigators, Downes allegedly claimed he was working as an undercover police operative after being detained. However, arresting officers reportedly questioned the legitimacy of his explanation and declined to release him.

It is alleged that Kadwa and Khan were later contacted to confirm Downes’ status and subsequently instructed officers to let him go, claiming he was linked to law enforcement operations.

Investigators now contend that the claims were false and that Downes had never served as a member of the police service.

The accused are facing charges linked to the unlawful possession and dealing of precious metals, corruption, and defeating the ends of justice as investigators continue probing alleged ties between law enforcement officials and illicit precious metals networks.

Speaking outside court after securing bail, Downes dismissed the allegations against him, insisting the prosecution had no grounds for the case.

“There is no case against me,” he told reporters, while also questioning why the Political Killings Task Team had been assigned to investigate him.

The matter has drawn national attention due to the seniority of the police officials involved and growing concern over corruption within specialised law enforcement structures.

The case has been postponed to 14 July as investigations continue.