Bushiri Fights to Block R50 Million Jet Auction as NPA Moves to Seize Assets
Fugitive Malawian pastor and businessman Shepherd Bushiri is once again in a legal battle to stop the auction of his luxury private jet, valued at around R50 million, which South Africa’s National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is seeking to seize and sell as part of ongoing asset recovery efforts.
The Bombardier Challenger 604 has been grounded at Lanseria Airport since 2020, when Bushiri and his wife Mary fled South Africa while out on bail.
The NPA’s Asset Forfeiture Unit previously secured a court order allowing the aircraft to be sold, with proceeds intended to help recover funds linked to fraud and money-laundering allegations.
Bushiri, who faces multiple charges including fraud and contravention of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act, is opposing the auction, arguing that authorities have not proven the jet was purchased using proceeds of crime.
His legal team maintains the aircraft was legitimately acquired and is now challenging both ownership claims and the legality of the forfeiture process.
He has also accused South African authorities of being politically motivated, insisting he is being unfairly targeted.
Despite his claims, prosecutors continue to pursue the seizure of luxury assets linked to his estate as part of a broader effort to recover alleged criminal proceeds.
The matter remains before the courts, and no official auction date has been announced.
English
