In a significant crackdown against illegal trade activities, Limpopo police in partnership with relevant stakeholders have apprehended several individuals in connection with the possession and distribution of illicit cigarettes and drugs. The operations, which took place on Thursday 15 February 2024, in Waterberg District, targeted various suspects in a series of meticulously planned and executed raids.
During the operations conducted in Mookgophong, Naboomspruit Police worked alongside the private security sector and acted on a tip-off about a vehicle suspected of loaded with illegal cigarettes. The vehicle was intercepted at a filling station. Two suspects aged 23 and 28 were found in possession of substantial quantities of illicit cigarettes, intended for distribution within local communities. The confiscated items are currently undergoing further examination, and the estimated market value of the seized goods is believed to be in the range of R299, 000.
The second incident occurred in Bela-Bela in which four male suspects were arrested for dealing in drugs during separate incidents. Three suspects were found in possession of 34 sachets of Nyaope drugs and other suspect was found in possession of 260 sachets of Nyaope, an undisclosed amount money, believed to be proceeds from drug dealing.
Limpopo Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has lauded the arrest.
“These arrests send a clear message that the illegal cigarette and drug trade will not be tolerated,” remarked Lieutenant General Hadebe
The suspects will soon appear before the respective Magistrate’s Court.
