Tanzanian male suspect arrested at Groblersburg border for attempting to smuggle over R2 Million of dagga, denied bail

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

POLOKWANE – A 50-year-old Tanzanian male suspect, Kuma Risase IDDI, apprehended at the Groblersburg Port of Entry for attempting to smuggle dagga worth over R2 million, has appeared before Witpoort Magistrate’s Court on Thursday 28 March 2024. He is expected to make formal bail application on 03 April 2024.

The arrest emanates after diligent efforts of police officers posted at the border led to the interception of the suspect, who was allegedly trying to transport a significant quantity of dagga across the border on Tuesday 26 March 2024 at about 22:00.

According to preliminary investigations, a white Iveco panel van en route from Cape Town to Botswana was stopped at the checkpoint. A thorough search was conducted, and 30 bags of dagga weighing 629, 49 kg were found concealed within the vehicle. The estimated street value of the seized contraband amounts to over R 2 million. The vehicle worth over R300 000 was  also confiscated as part of the investigation.

The suspect was detained at Tomburke Police Station.

“We are committed to combating illegal activities and ensuring the safety and security of our borders. We remain vigilant in our efforts to disrupt criminal networks involved in drug trafficking and other illicit activities,” said the Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe.

Ends

Enquiries:
Colonel Malesela Ledwaba
082 451 7180

X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/SAPoliceService
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SAPoliceService
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sapoliceservice_za/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/SAPoliceService
Website: www.saps.gov.za