The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) conducted a raid on five alleged smugglers and seized illicit cigarettes worth R30 million at a farm situated between Musina and Beitbridge border post this week.
Hawks spokesperson, Captain Matimba Maluleke, stated that the specialized team was “extremely determined” to combat the smuggling of illicit cigarettes in the country by “dismantling and paralyzing the syndicate operations.”
The operation was launched after the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation Unit received a tip-off on February 25th regarding illicit cigarettes being stored at a farm between Musina and the Beitbridge Port of Entry.
“A multi-disciplinary sting operation was immediately conducted between the Hawks, the South African Police Service, South Africa National Defense Force, and South African Revenue Services,” said Maluleke.
“When the team arrived at the identified farm, they discovered a truck and a tractor whose trailer was loaded with suspected illicit cigarettes covered with brick pallets.
“A preliminary investigation led to the discovery of a bakkie and another truck in the vicinity that were also fully loaded with suspected illicit cigarettes,” Maluleke added.
The estimated value of the confiscated cigarettes was more than R30 million.
“The team worked throughout the night to safeguard the exhibit and locate the suspects,” Maluleke said.
Eventually, police tracked down and apprehended five suspects aged between 26 and 44. They have been charged for contravening the Customs and Excise Act.
National head of the Hawks, Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya, commended the team for their successful operation.
“The Hawks shall continue to dismantle organized criminal groups that decide to operate anywhere in our jurisdiction," Lebeya added.
