Police have seized suspected illicit cigarettes worth an estimated R7.5 million and arrested a man (35) following an operation on the N1 near Vaal Plaza.

The seizure was made on Tuesday 2 June when members of the Fezile Dabi District Highway Patrol conducted a vehicle checkpoint along the national route.

Officers identified a truck travelling towards Kroonstad and stopped it at the Engen One Stop service station for inspection.

A search of the truck uncovered a large consignment of suspected illicit cigarettes. The vehicle was escorted to the Parys police station for further investigation.

Police confiscated 430 boxes of suspected illicit cigarettes. An Isuzu truck believed to have been used to transport the goods was also seized.

The driver was arrested and is expected to appear before the Parys Magistrate’s Court on charges related to the possession of suspected illicit cigarettes.

Police spokesperson Sgt Josephine Rani said investigations into the origin and intended destination of the consignment are continuing.