Rulani Mokwena: Ex-Sundowns boss detained at Algiers airport after MC Alger exit

Former MC Alger head coach Rulani Mokwena has reportedly been stopped by customs officials at Houari Boumediene Airport in Algiers over allegations of attempting to leave the country with undeclared foreign currency.

The development comes barely 24 hours after the former Mamelodi Sundowns coach parted ways with the Algerian giants, bringing an abrupt end to his eight-month spell at the club.

According to reports from Algerian outlet El Haddaf, the South African coach was intercepted by airport authorities while preparing to depart the country.

The case has reportedly been referred to the court in Dar El Beida, which handles airport-related legal matters in the Algerian capital.

Authorities have not disclosed the amount of money allegedly involved, but the investigation centres on undeclared foreign currency, which falls under Algeria’s strict financial regulations governing cross-border cash movement.

Airport incident emerges shortly after MC Alger exit

The news surfaced on social media through Nigerian football journalist Osasu Obayiuwana, who cited Algerian reporter Nazim Bessol as the source of the information.

The reported incident follows Mokwena’s confirmed departure from MC Alger on Saturday. The club said the coach activated a contractual clause allowing him to end his tenure, with the Algerian side required to compensate him with two months’ salary.

During his eight months in charge, Mokwena achieved notable success. He led the club to victory in the Algerian Super Cup and kept the team at the top of the domestic league standings for much of the season.

However, the campaign also saw setbacks, including exits from the Algerian Cup and the CAF Champions League.

Rulani Mokwena: Possible move to Libya

Reports in North African media had already linked Mokwena with a potential move to Libyan club Al‑Ittihad SC shortly after his departure from MC Alger.

If the move materialises, Mokwena could reunite with Thembinkosi Lorch, whom he previously coached at Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns.

However, the situation at the airport could complicate those plans if the investigation develops further.

As of the time of writing, neither Mokwena nor his representatives have issued an official statement regarding the alleged incident.

Algerian authorities have also yet to comment publicly on the matter.

The situation remains a developing story, with more details expected in the coming days as legal proceedings progress.