The fight against the smuggling and dealing in illicit cigarettes has intensified in Limpopo.
Four suspects, aged between 32 and 34, were arrested and illicit cigarettes valued at more than R1 million confiscated.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo said cops conducted a snap operation along the N1 between Beitbridge and Musina after receiving information about certain individuals smuggling illicit cigarettes into the country.
He said a vehicle with two occupants was then stopped and illicit cigarettes were found stacked in bags.
A further probe conducted by the members at the scene led them to the nearby mall where another suspect was found loading illicit cigarettes into a vehicle.
The suspect attempted to evade arrest but was quickly caught after a short pursuit.
“Information surfaced that these cigarettes were to be transported to a certain warehouse in Musina town where more cigarettes were stored.”
Mojapelo said the team rushed to the given address and on arrival, a vehicle already loaded with illicit cigarettes was found parked at the said warehouse.
The team started searching and boxes of more illicit cigarettes were found in one of the rooms.
The suspects are expected to appear before the Musina Magistrate's Court soon.
