POLOKWANE – The South African Police Service (SAPS) Capricorn District Flying Squad has arrested a 34-year-old suspect and seized illicit cigarettes valued at R20,000 following a vehicle pursuit along the R81 highway. This intelligence-driven operation in the Makotopong area highlights continued law enforcement efforts to dismantle illicit tobacco trade networks in Limpopo.
According to a spokesperson for the SAPS Capricorn District, the operation was initiated on Friday, 21 August 2026, at approximately 18:00. Acting on information from a reliable source, police units were alerted to a silver Volkswagen Touareg allegedly transporting illicit cigarettes in the Sebayeng policing area near Makotopong.
Upon receiving the tip-off, Flying Squad members immediately deployed to the area to locate the identified vehicle. Officers successfully spotted the silver SUV travelling out of Makotopong Village and initiated an interception attempt.
The driver allegedly refused to comply with police instructions to stop, instead accelerating in the direction of Polokwane along the R81 highway. A coordinated pursuit ensued, ultimately concluding when the suspect’s vehicle was cornered at the entrance to Bendor.
During a subsequent search of the vehicle, conducted in the presence of the driver, authorities discovered a consignment of Remington Gold illicit cigarettes. The seized goods carry an estimated street value of R20,000.
The 34-year-old suspect was formally arrested and detained on charges of possession of illicit cigarettes. He is scheduled to appear before the Polokwane Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 24 August 2026.
Police investigations into the matter remain ongoing as authorities continue to target networks involved in the illegal distribution of tobacco products.
