The South African National Defence Force prides itself with the performance and successes made by its members deployed along the RSA borders. Within two weeks the members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) deployed in Limpopo Province confiscated illegal cigarettes to the value of R1 465 026 million both in Musina and Madimbo area.
On 7 March 2013 the members of the SANDF conducting a standing patrol at Shamadumbo area found 77 boxes, 36 loose cartons and 6 loose packets of Pacific Blue Cigarettes to the value of R715 134,40. Upon seeing the members of the SANDF about forty (40) people each carrying boxes dropped them down and returned to Zimbabwe. The cigarettes were handed over to South African Revenue Service.
The second success took place on 17 March 2013 in the Maremane Farm. The cigarettes were found in two batches, the first were 2 247 cartons of Sevilles to the value of R429 410.49. The second batch found was 1 667 cartons to the value of R320 481.26 on the White Colt bakkie wiith registration No CKV 742 L. The bakkie was removed from the scene by SARS and a case was opened at SAPS Musina.
Commenting on the border management achievements, Chief of Joint Operations, Lieutenant General Derrick Mgwebi says “the illegal tobacco trade impacts negatively on the socio-economic situation of the South Africans and make it difficult for the government to achieve budget objectives therefore as members of the South African National Defence Force we are required to contribute towards the eradication of such illegal activities on our borders”.
Enquiries:
Xolani Mabanga
Cell: 082 8899 537
