Lengthy sentence for Zimbabwean National convicted of possession and transporting of illicit cigarettes

Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner Limpopo
 

POLOKWANE – A Zimbabwean national, Sidalokuhle Ncube (45), has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term for possession and transporting of illicit cigarettes.

On 30 June 2024, police officers stopped a suspicious silver Toyota Corolla with Gauteng registration numbers on the R81 near a filling station. A search revealed 85 cartons of Remington Gold cigarettes, and Ncube was arrested. The vehicle and cigarettes were confiscated, and a case docket was opened at SAPS Sebayeng near Mankweng.

The Limpopo Provincial Organized Crime Investigation Unit took over the investigation, leading to Ncube’s conviction at the Polokwane Regional Court for:

• Contravening the South African Revenue Service Act, Income Tax Act, Value Added Tax Act, and Customs and Excise Act
• Possession of illicit cigarettes (5 years’ imprisonment)
• Contravening the Immigration Act (2 years’ imprisonment)

The accused was further declared unfit to possess a firearm.

Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, welcomed the sentencing, stating it would serve as a deterrent to other criminals involved in smuggling syndicates.

Ends

Enquiries:
Colonel Malesela Ledwaba
082 451 7180

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