Authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo have opened an official investigation following the seizure of nearly $2 million in cash at N’djili International Airport.
According to a statement issued by Justice Minister Guillaume Ngefa, officials initially intercepted $1.9 million, although unverified reports suggest the amount involved could be as high as $3.53 million.
In a message posted on the social media platform X, Ngefa said he had instructed judicial authorities to secure the money while a full investigation is conducted.
“I have instructed the Attorney General at the Court of Cassation to ensure the proper and complete seizure of the funds and place them under seal in the presence of competent judicial police officers,” the minister said.
Authorities have also been directed to compile a detailed report on the incident, including determining the origin of the funds, identifying the individual involved, and establishing whether any criminal liability exists among those connected to the case.
Ngefa further ordered that the matter be referred to the appropriate prosecutor’s office to initiate formal judicial proceedings.
The case comes as the Democratic Republic of Congo intensifies efforts to combat financial crimes.
Recently, President Félix Tshisekedi signed a decree establishing a specialized criminal court tasked with handling economic and financial offences.
Under Article 25 of the country’s anti–money laundering legislation, the confiscated funds are expected to be transferred to the Central Bank of the Congo, while the case file must also be submitted to the National Financial Intelligence Unit (CENAREF) for further analysis.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the identity of the individual linked to the seized funds.
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