POLOKWANE -A Zimbabwean national, Shumba Munetsi (45), arrested in connection with the alleged smuggling of manufactured tobacco valued at approximately R3.8 million, has been remanded in custody following his appearance before the Phalala Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday. He is expected to reappear in the same court on 31 August for a bail application.
Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, provincial spokesperson for Limpopo police, said the accused, Munetsi, faces charges of smuggling and illegal transport of suspected manufactured tobacco. He said members of the SAPS Border Policing team arrested the accused at Groblersbrug Port of Entry on Monday, following the discovery of illicit tobacco at approximately 18:42.
“Members of the SAPS Border Policing team stopped and inspected a Volvo truck towing an LP gas trailer at the arrival gate as it attempted to enter the Republic of South Africa. The truck and trailer were subjected to an initial inspection and subsequently referred for a more thorough search. During the inspection, the driver indicated that the trailer was carrying gas. However, members became suspicious after discovering a large, concealed hatch underneath the trailer. The construction and position of the hatch appeared to provide access to the interior of the trailer and raised suspicions that it could be used to conceal goods. The concealed hatch was opened in the presence of the police members, leading to the discovery of 521 plastic bags containing approximately 7 294 kilograms of suspected manufactured tobacco concealed underneath the trailer,” said Ledwaba.
He said members seized the suspected tobacco products, with an estimated value of R3.8 million, as well as the Volvo truck and LP gas trailer, with a combined estimated value of R1.8 million.
“An investigation is continuing to establish the origin and intended destination of the suspected illicit tobacco, as well as to determine whether other persons are linked to the alleged smuggling operation,” said Ledwaba.
The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers, has welcomed the vigilance and commitment displayed by the Border Policing members in detecting the concealed tobacco.
