Police intercept convoy of five high-powered vehicles loaded with illicit cigarettes worth over R1 million, three suspects arrested, and one involved in a fatal accident

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

POLOKWANE – In a relentless pursuit of suspects involved in transporting illicit cigarettes, members of the Limpopo Provincial Flying Squad intercepted a convoy of five high-powered vehicles loaded with illicit cigarettes worth over R1 million and arrested three suspects on Friday, 23 August 2024, following a high-speed chase.

The chase unfolded on the R519 Bergenek road towards Zebediela when a black Jeep from Polokwane, fully loaded with illicit cigarettes, failed to stop. The Jeep collided with a truck, overturned, and the driver, a foreign national, tragically passed away at the scene. The truck driver and passenger sustained injuries and were taken to a local hospital.

Two additional suspects, a South African and a foreign national, were arrested in a Toyota Rav 4, while a third foreign national suspect was arrested in a white Ford Ranger, both vehicles containing illicit cigarettes. The other two vehicles, a white Mercedes Benz and charcoal Ford Ranger, were recovered at Bergenek village in Westenburg policing area, still loaded with illicit cigarettes. An unknown number of suspects had fled the scene.

All five vehicles, including the one involved in the accident, were seized. Cases of culpable homicide and possession and transportation of illicit cigarettes have been opened. The identity of the deceased suspect is still unknown.

The three suspects, aged between 38 and 47 are scheduled to appear before Magatle Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 26 August 2024.

The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, commended the members for their persistence in ensuring the suspects were apprehended and the illicit cigarettes recovered. Lieutenant General Hadebe further highlighted the ongoing fight against the smuggling of illicit goods, emphasizing the SAPS’ commitment to addressing cross-border crimes.
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