MUSINA – Operation Corona targets illicit trade in Musina, with endangered species, narcotics and medicines among the suspected illicit goods.

The officials took more than R105 million worth of goods during the multidisciplinary law-enforcement operation. The operation targeted bogus and illicit trading in Limpopo.

The joint operation, led in Musina, brought together the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs and the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The operation, known as Operation Corona, began after involved agencies gathered at a military base in the Soutpansberg Military Area. The members received their orders before the onset of the mission began.

The operation focused on stores suspected of selling counterfeit and contraband goods. Also targeted were places allegedly linked to the smuggling of illicit and prohibited items.

These included goods suspected to involve endangered species, narcotics and various medicines.

Authorities also aimed to protect South Africa’s clothing and textile industry by disrupting the trade in counterfeit products.

The combined value of all goods confiscated during the operation was R105,219,458.

The three commanders representing the participating agencies commended the multidisciplinary forces for the successful execution of the operation.

The commanders were Col. Dikgabane Herold Tladi (officer Commanding of Joint Tactical Headquarters Limpopo); Lt . Gen. Jan Scheepers (Provincial Commissioner of SAPS); and Memory Ndou (Senior Manager SARS Cluster 1, Limpopo and North West, Land Modality).

The operation highlighted the importance of interdepartmental cooperation in combating illicit activities, protecting local industries and strengthening enforcement of South Africa’s laws.

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