Illegal smokes worth R2m, more than 20 arrests over past week in Limpopo
A week-long police operation in Polokwane led to the arrest of more than 20 suspects and the confiscation of illicit cigarettes worth over R2 million.
Police spokesperson Motlafela Mojapelo says the operation was conducted across Limpopo between 8 and 16 June and largely focused on the smuggling and trade of illegal cigarettes.
"An assortment of illicit cigarettes including Remington Gold, Chelsea, Royal Express and Premium worth R 2 250 000.00 were confiscated at various places and suspects aged between 19 and 60 arrested.
"The arrests were effected in Lephalale, Musina, Modimolle, Tshilwavhusikhu, Mphephu, Makhado and Tuinplaas policing areas during patrols and roadblocks."
Mojapelo says three foreign nationals aged 36 and 39 were arrested in Mphephu and illicit cigarettes worth about R700 000 confiscated during an operation that was conducted at Dzanani section.
Two other suspects were arrested in Lephalale on Friday.
"The vehicle was then stopped by the police and when it was searched, a full load of illicit cigarettes was found. Two suspects were immediately arrested and the cigarettes confiscated. Their vehicle was also seized," says Mojapelo.
Some of the arrested suspects have already appeared before their respective local magistrates courts.
