Police seize R25m worth of illicit cigarettes in Polokwane
Police in Limpopo have uncovered an illicit cigarettes operation worth an estimated R25 million and arrested a 39-year-old suspect in Nirvana, Polokwane.
The operation was carried out on Wednesday afternoon at a warehouse in the Nirvana area in the Capricorn District.
Police say the raid followed intelligence information about a warehouse allegedly being used to store illicit cigarettes.
During the operation, law enforcement officials discovered large quantities of illicit cigarettes estimated to be worth R25 million.
A 39-year-old Indian national, believed to be the manager of the warehouse, was arrested at the scene for allegedly contravening the Customs and Excise Act by dealing in illicit cigarettes.
Provincial police say investigations are continuing and more arrests could follow as authorities work to dismantle the broader network behind the illicit cigarette trade.
Limpopo Police Commissioner Thembi Hadebe commended the collaborative effort by the various law enforcement agencies involved in the operation.
"This operation demonstrates the unwavering commitment of law enforcement agencies to dismantle criminal networks involved in illicit trade, which deprives the country of vital revenue and undermines legitimate businesses."
She added that intelligence-driven operations would continue across the province.
"We will continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations across the province to ensure that those involved in the illegal cigarette trade are brought to book."
The suspect is expected to appear before the Polokwane Magistrate's Court on Friday.
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