Six suspects have been arrested, 10 stolen vehicles valued at R3.9 million and allegedly destined for Zimbabwe recovered, and illicit cigarettes and controlled medicines worth approximately R5.7 million seized during a joint operation.
The operation was conducted by the police, SA National Defence Force (SANDF) and other law enforcement agencies.
The intelligence-driven operations were conducted between September 21 and October 25, targeting cross-border criminal syndicates operating along key routes, border areas and illegal crossing points in Limpopo.
Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the operations focused on routes leading towards the Limpopo River and the Zimbabwean border.
The operations resulted in the recovery of stolen vehicles, the seizure of illicit goods and the arrest of suspects allegedly linked to organised crime networks.
The operations were conducted along key routes and hotspots, including the N1 corridor, Musina, Tshamutumbu, Makhado, Malala Drift, Sandquest and surrounding areas.
Police were supported by SANDF personnel and other law enforcement partners, with the aim of disrupting vehicle smuggling and the movement of illicit goods across South Africa’s borders.
Vehicles allegedly destined for Zimbabwe
“As a result of these operations, 10 vehicles were recovered, including a Haval H6, Ford Ranger, Toyota Fortuner, two Nissan Navaras, VW Polo, Subaru Outback, Suzuki Ertiga and Mercedes-Benz,” Ledwaba said.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the vehicles were destined for neighbouring Zimbabwe.
Ledwaba said police had identified a common modus operandi involving false registration plates, tampered vehicle identification numbers (VINs), removed engine numbers and other methods associated with organised vehicle-smuggling syndicates.
Cigarettes and controlled medicines seized
Ledwaba said law enforcement officers seized large quantities of illicit cigarettes and controlled medicines.
“In addition, law enforcement officers confiscated substantial quantities of illicit goods, including 252 master boxes and 499 cartons of Remington Gold cigarettes (Gold and Blue variants), as well as 412 bottles of controlled medicines, comprising Astrapain, Painagon and Stillpane.”
The recovered vehicles are valued at approximately R3.9m, while the seized cigarettes and medicines are estimated to be worth R5.7 million.
The total estimated value of the recovered vehicles and seized goods is R9,6 million.
Six suspects arrested
Six suspects were arrested during the operations and are expected to face various charges, including possession of suspected stolen vehicles, contraventions of customs and excise legislation, and other offences linked to organised crime.
Limpopo police commissioner Lieutenant-General Jan Scheepers praised the dedication and collaboration of the officers and law enforcement partners involved.
“These outstanding results demonstrate the unwavering commitment of our members and law enforcement partners to protect South Africa’s borders and combat organised crime,” Scheepers said.
“The recovery of vehicles worth millions of rand and the seizure of illicit goods destined for illegal markets have significantly disrupted criminal networks that seek to undermine the economy and threaten the safety of our communities.”
He commended the officers who worked under difficult conditions to ensure the operations were successful.
“These operations send a strong message that Limpopo is not a safe haven for criminals and that we will continue to pursue those involved in cross-border crime without fear or favour.
“The South African Police Service remains committed to strengthening border security, combating transnational organised crime and ensuring that those involved in illegal activities are brought to justice,” he added.
IOL News
Simon Majadibodu
iol.co.za
