By Mofokeng Mofokeng
Rulani Mokwena, the former coach, is getting assistance from South Africa’s diplomatic office in Algiers after his arrest for allegedly breaking Algeria’s foreign currency laws.
The 39-year-old ex-Mamelodi Sundowns coach was reportedly detained by customs officials at Houari Boumediene Airport while trying to leave the country with undeclared foreign currency. Algerian law mandates that travelers declare large sums of foreign currency before leaving, and not doing so can result in criminal charges.
Reports suggest that this incident happened shortly after Mokwena and Algerian club MC Alger agreed to part ways, concluding his eight-month stint with the North African team.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation confirmed that the South African embassy in Algiers has been informed of the arrest and is offering consular support to the coach. Officials stated that diplomatic staff are in touch with Mokwena and are keeping an eye on the situation as it progresses through Algeria’s legal system.
Sources close to the case mentioned that the issue might be addressed in a court in Dar El Beida, which handles cases related to the airport.
The arrest has caught many football fans off guard, as Mokwena had recently led MC Alger to the top of the Algerian league standings before his sudden exit. Considered one of South Africa’s most promising young coaches, Mokwena gained recognition during his successful time with Mamelodi Sundowns.
It is still uncertain when the court proceedings will occur or if the charges could impact his future coaching opportunities abroad.
