Illicit cigarettes worth nearly R2 million seized in Upington undercover bust
Boxes of illicit cigarettes, worth nearly R2 million, were confiscated during an undercover sting in Rosedale, Upington.
Image: Supplied / SAPS
AN UNDERCOVER operation by the Upington Border Police has led to the seizure of a stash of illicit cigarettes worth nearly R2 million hidden in a Rosedale property.
Northern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Omphile Masegela said the bust was made on June 6, after off-duty members of the Highway Patrol tipped off their colleagues about suspicious activity and illicit cigarettes being stored at the premises.
Working with SA Revenue Service Customs officials, law enforcement launched an undercover operation to confirm the illegal dealings.
Following the successful buy-and-bust operation, officers seized illicit cigarettes with an estimated value of R1,873,716. The contraband was handed over to Customs officials for further handling and investigation.
Authorities have opened an inquiry into the possession of illicit goods, with investigations continuing to identify those behind the illegal operation.
The ZF Mgcawu district commissioner, Major-General Monica Sebili, praised the swift response and co-ordinated efforts of the team, highlighting the operation as a strong example of effective policing in action.
The police say the seizure is part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on cross-border smuggling and illicit cigarette sales in the district and province.
Boxes of illicit cigarettes, worth nearly R2 million, were confiscated during an undercover sting in Rosedale, Upington.
Image: Supplied / SAPS