The illicit cigarettes and facial creams were hidden in a heavy truck transporting precious stones arriving from Botswana.
Image: SAPS
Two men, aged 38 and 42, have been arrested for allegedly smuggling illicit goods at the Groblersburg port of entry bordering South Africa and Botswana.
Provincial police spokesperson in Limpopo, Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Thakeng said the two foreign nationals were arrested on Saturday.
“According to the reports, a customs official on duty at the import arrival gate intercepted a white freightliner truck and a trailer with two occupants, with Gauteng registration, carrying the consignment of precious stones cleared in bond,” said Thakeng.
“As he was discussing with the driver about stopping his truck for an incorrect remover code, the driver proposed to offer him a bribe of R20,000, but his proposal was unsuccessful.”
Then, the customs official engaged members of SAPS immediately.
The illicit cigarettes and facial creams were hidden in a heavy truck transporting precious stones arriving from Botswana.
Image: SAPS
Thakeng said the truck was subsequently escorted to the ramp inspection area under police guard where upon opening the tarpaulins, cigarettes, facial creams, and tablets were found hidden among the bags of precious stones declared.
During the arrests, the police confiscated goods including 2,250 cartons of Remington Gold cigarettes valued R606 510; 50 boxes with 4,200 containers of extra clear creams valued R252,000; 20 boxes with 5,760 tubes of Epiderm facial cream valued R172,800; and 32 boxes of Appeti tablets valued R695,000.
The International truck and trailer, valued at R1.1 million, were also seized.
The arrested duo will appear before court on Wednesday facing charges of smuggling of illicit goods.
Meanwhile, provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has applauded the dedicated customs officer and SAPS members for their efforts to combat illicit trade while also safeguarding the community's safety and well-being.
IOL