22/08/2026
Two Arrested After Almost R2 Million in Illicit Ci******es Found Under Coal Load
By Mr Lee
Mbyana ya Mahungu
GROBLERSBRUG, LIMPOPO — Two men have been arrested after police and Customs officials allegedly discovered illicit ci******es worth almost R2 million concealed beneath a load of coal at the Groblersbrug Port of Entry on Friday, 21 August 2026.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the suspects, aged 23 and 35, were arrested following intelligence received by Border Policing and Customs members at about 11:00 regarding a truck suspected of transporting illicit ci******es.
The truck was intercepted after entering the port and subjected to a preliminary inspection.
Members reportedly became suspicious that prohibited goods had been concealed underneath the coal. The vehicle was then taken to a designated search area, where the coal was offloaded.
During the search, officers allegedly discovered bags containing master cartons of illicit ci******es hidden beneath the coal.
A total of 4,800 cartons were confiscated, consisting of 4,050 cartons of Re*****on Gold and 750 cartons of Swan ci******es.
The seized ci******es have an estimated value of R1,996,800.
Authorities also seized the international truck and two Afrit Tubmaster tipper trailers. The combined estimated value of the vehicles is R854,250.
SAPS said both suspects are Zimbabwean nationals and are expected to appear before the Phalala Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 24 August 2026, where they are expected to face charges related to the alleged smuggling of illicit ci******es.
Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers welcomed the arrests and commended the cooperation between law-enforcement agencies operating at ports of entry.
He said such cooperation remains important in disrupting criminal networks involved in illicit activities.
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