News

Illicit cigarettes worth almost R3 million seized in Groblershoop

Marlene Minopetros|Published

The SAPS in the Northern Cape has successfully confiscated illicit cigarettes with an estimated street value of R2.8 million from a storage premises in Groblershoop.

Image: Supplied / SAPS

The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape has successfully confiscated illicit cigarettes with an estimated street value of R2.8 million from a storage premises in Groblershoop. 

The operation was conducted on June 25, 2025, following information received about illicit cigarettes being sold at a local shop.

According to reports, the Upington Border Police, assisted by the Upington K9 unit and Customs, conducted a buy-and-bust operation after obtaining a search warrant for the premises. Upon searching the premises, police discovered 110 master cases, 68 cartons, and 46 packets of cigarettes.

The seized cigarettes were handed over to customs for further investigation. 

The SAPS commended the collaboration between the units involved in the operation, highlighting their dedication to protecting essential infrastructure and combating crime.