By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
The South African Police Service (Saps) has confirmed the arrest of two Zimbabwean nationals and the seizure of illicit cigarettes valued at approximately R180 000 following a coordinated anti-smuggling operation in Limpopo.
In a statement posted on its official Facebook page, police said the operation was carried out by the Limpopo Tracking Team with support from Tshimollo Security and Investigation and Shadow Secure Security.
Saps said intelligence was received indicating that two white Toyota Corolla Quest vehicles were transporting illicit Remington Gold cigarettes from Musina to the Tzaneen area.
Operational teams were immediately deployed along the R36 route to monitor the vehicles.
The vehicles were later spotted travelling towards the Tzaneen industrial area. When officers attempted to intercept them, both drivers sped off in the direction of the Tzaneen Sasol garage, leading to a chase.
The vehicles were eventually cornered near the Sasol Industrial area.
Upon searching the vehicles, police discovered that both were fully loaded with illicit Remington Gold cigarettes.
Two suspects, aged 37 and 48, both Zimbabwean nationals, were arrested at the scene.
Limpopo Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe praised the cooperation between police and private security companies, saying the partnership continues to disrupt criminal activity and protect the province’s economy.
The two suspects are expected to appear before the Tzaneen Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday on charges of possession of illicit cigarettes.