BREAKING NEWS: Rhulani Mokwena Fined, Receives Suspended Sentence and Cleared to Leave Algeria After €14,200 Undeclared Currency Incident

Rhulani Mokwena, the former Mamelodi Sundowns coach, has received a two-month suspended prison sentence and a fine of 50,000 Algerian dinars (approximately R6,500) for violating Algeria's foreign currency export regulations. He was arrested at Houari Boumediene Airport in Algiers on March 15, 2026, after customs officials discovered undeclared foreign currency, totaling €14,200, in his luggage.

The South African embassy in Algiers confirmed it was providing consular assistance to Mokwena, and he has since been cleared to leave Algeria. Mokwena had parted ways with MC Alger just a day before his arrest and was reportedly heading to Libya to join Al-Ittihad SC.

Mokwena's troubles in Algeria aren't limited to his currency incident. He's also been slapped with sanctions by the Algerian Ligue 1 for misconduct during and after MC Alger's league game against MC Oran. The sanctions include fines for protesting against referees and refusing to attend a post-match press conference.

Despite these challenges, MC Alger remains at the top of the Algerian Ligue 1 table, with a one-point lead over second-placed CS Constantine. Mokwena's experience and leadership will be crucial in navigating the team through this period.

Mokwena's case highlights the importance of adhering to local regulations when working abroad. His situation serves as a reminder for coaches and players to be aware of the laws and rules in their host countries.