Lesotho diplomats expelled from South Africa over alleged peddling of duty-free alcohol

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MASERU, 11 June, 2021 (TON): On Thursday, several Lesotho diplomats expelled from South Africa over illegal sale of alcohol, said Lesotho foreign ministry.

The diplomats and the families have been given 72 hours to move from the country, said the ministry.

The Foreign Ministry in Maseru said in a statement, “South Africa had taken the decision because the diplomats violated laws specifically, the illicit trade in duty-free alcohol.”

According to the South African media, Lesotho diplomats have been bringing alcohol into the country without paying duty and then re-selling it in bars and restaurants.

The ministry expressed "disappointment and embarrassment that several Basotho diplomats have been declared persona non grata" by South Africa.

However, the ministry has vowed disciplinary action on returning of the officers to the country.

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