LIMPOPO — Two suspects have been arrested at the Groblersbrug Port of Entry following the discovery of illicit cigarettes valued at nearly R2 million, concealed beneath a load of coal. The significant seizure underscores ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat cross-border smuggling operations in the region.
The operation was initiated on Friday, 21 August 2026, at approximately 11:00, after Border Policing and Customs officials received intelligence regarding a truck suspected of transporting contraband through the port. Acting on this information, officers positioned themselves at the entry point and intercepted the identified vehicle for a preliminary inspection.
During the initial check, officials grew suspicious that prohibited goods were hidden under the coal cargo. The vehicle was subsequently redirected to a designated search area for a comprehensive inspection. Once the coal was offloaded, authorities discovered multiple bags containing master cartons of illicit cigarettes.
In total, 4,800 cartons of illicit cigarettes were confiscated. The haul consisted of 4,050 cartons of Remington Gold cigarettes and 750 cartons of Swan cigarettes, carrying an estimated combined value of R1,996,800.00.
In addition to the contraband, police and customs officials seized the white and red international truck used in the operation, along with two Afrit Tubmaster tipper trailers. The seized vehicles hold an estimated combined value of R854,250.00.
The two arrested suspects, male Zimbabwean nationals aged 23 and 35, are scheduled to appear before the Phalala Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 24 August 2026. They face formal charges related to the smuggling of illicit cigarettes.
Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers, the Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, welcomed the arrests and commended the vigilance and cooperation demonstrated by the involved units.
“The cooperation between law-enforcement agencies at our ports of entry remains critical in disrupting these criminal networks,” Lieutenant General Scheepers stated.
Police investigations into the matter remain ongoing.
