Trouble seems to be brewing between Madagascar and South Africa, and it may just result in the loss of the only commercial flight between the two countries.
Since Covid-19 restrictions were lifted, other commercial airlines have been flying to Madagascar, but Airlink – the only commercial airline flying from South Africa – may not land in Madagascar, nor any other charters or private planes.
The matter revolves around 73.5kg of gold bars and an unknown amount of foreign currency, seized at OR Tambo International Airport from travellers from Madagascar in 2020.
At the time the gold bars were valued at R61 million and an aviation industry source allegedly stated that among the confiscated goods were gemstones that totalled up to an additional R20 billion, reports the Daily Maverick.
This sparked massive controversy in Madagascar, with several senior government officials in Madagascar allegedly implicated in the smuggling operation. In January 2021, 12 people were arrested, including the secretary-general of Madagascar’s civil aviation authority, the pilots and staff of the airline in question and the airport security staff.
Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina’s government has demanded the return of the seized loot, as well as the three travellers who are currently in jail in South Africa. However, South African government is insisting that the three travellers committed an offence in South Africa and must be held here under a court of law.
Airlink Chief Executive Officer Rodger Foster stated that he had been closely working with Rajoelina’s government and South Africa’s ambassador to Madagascar, Sisa Ngombane, to lift the ban.
The airline denies knowingly facilitating the transport of contraband and noted that the flight carrying the seized loot and three travellers were operated by a Malagasy company.
Picture: Getaway Gallery
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