A well-coordinated intelligence-driven police operation on the R57 near Zamdela has resulted in the arrest of two men after authorities uncovered illicit cigarettes worth more than R3 million hidden inside a truck allegedly transporting illegal goods through the Free State.
The suspects, aged 60 and 45, were arrested on Wednesday morning, 20 May, following a joint operation involving the Infrastructure Task Team, Highway Patrol Shift A, Viljoendrift Shift and Gauteng Crime Intelligence Gathering (CIG).
Police spokesperson Sgt Josephine Rani said officers had acted on intelligence regarding a truck travelling along the R57 route near Zamdela at about 08:30. The vehicle was intercepted and escorted to the Zamdela Police Station for a detailed inspection.
During the investigation, the suspects allegedly attempted to bribe police officers with R900 in an effort to prevent the search from continuing after they had reportedly failed to provide invoices or documentation for the goods being transported.
A subsequent search of the truck led to the discovery of 499 boxes of illicit cigarettes concealed beneath 74 boxes of foam cups.
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The illicit cigarettes are estimated to have a street value of approximately R3,1 million. The successful operation is being viewed as another significant breakthrough in the fight against the illegal tobacco trade, which continues to cost the country billions in lost tax revenue annually while fuelling organised crime networks.
The two suspects are expected to appear in the Sasolburg Magistrate’s Court on charges relating to the possession of illicit cigarettes and bribery.
