Wendy Dondolo|Published
Police have seized illicit cigarettes valued at approximately R1.5 million and two vehicles worth an estimated R600,000 during an intelligence-led operation in Musina, Limpopo, with a 36-year-old Zimbabwean national expected to appear in court.
The suspect was arrested on Monday, October 19, at premises allegedly used to store large quantities of illicit cigarettes.
He is expected to appear before the Musina Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, facing charges of possession and transportation of illicit cigarettes.
The operation targeted an alleged illicit cigarette syndicate operating in the area.
Cigarettes worth R1.5m recovered
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Limpopo, officers recovered 55 boxes and 46 cartons of Remington Gold cigarettes during the operation.
The seized cigarettes are valued at approximately R1.5 million.
“Two motor vehicles, with a combined estimated value of R600 000, were also seized,” police said.
The multidisciplinary team involved in the operation comprised the Provincial Organised Crime Investigation Threat-Based Unit, Musina Detectives and the Provincial Organised Crime Investigation Narcotics Unit.
The operation formed part of efforts to disrupt suspected organised criminal activity linked to the illicit cigarette trade.
Suspected syndicate leader among those who fled
Police said the suspected syndicate leader and four other suspects fled the scene and remain at large.
“Police have launched efforts to trace and arrest the outstanding suspects as investigations continue to identify and dismantle the alleged syndicate,” police said.
Police commissioner welcomes operation
Limpopo SAPS provincial commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Petrus Scheepers commended the police teams involved in the operation, praising their coordinated efforts to disrupt suspected organised criminal activities.
Scheepers reiterated that police would continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations targeting criminal networks.
He said the focus remained on dismantling such networks and ensuring that those involved in illicit trade were brought to justice.
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