By Lerato Mpembe
Hazyview, Mpumalanga – The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga arrested three individuals involved in an illegal cigarette operation valued at over R2.5 million. The arrests, which occurred on Thursday, 22 August 2024, underscore the continued efforts by the SAPS to combat illegal trade under the banner of Operation Shanela.
The trio, consisting of two men aged 30 and 35, and a woman aged 61, was apprehended in a residential property in Hazyview following a tip-off. The SAPS spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, confirmed that the successful operation was the result of an extensive multi-unit collaboration. The involved units included the Tactical Response Team (TRT), K9 Unit, Public Order Policing (POP), Flying Squad, Mounted Unit, Visible Policing, the Police Bikers, and Detective Services.
The operation began when the team, initially conducting compliance checks at liquor outlets in the Calcutta area, received credible intelligence regarding a truck believed to be transporting contraband goods. The information led the officers to the Hazyview property where they discovered a large storage area filled with illegal items, including cigarettes, beauty products, and kitchenware.
The seized goods are estimated to have a street value exceeding R2.5 million. In addition to the illicit cigarettes, the officers also found 10 rounds of live ammunition on the premises. The three suspects now face charges related to the unlawful possession of ammunition and the possession of illegal goods. They remain in police custody and are expected to appear in court soon.
Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, praised the swift action of the officers and highlighted the importance of community cooperation in combating crime. “We remain dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of our communities by actively pursuing illegal activities and holding those responsible accountable,” said Major General Mkhwanazi. “This discovery underscores our commitment to maintaining law and order in the province, and we are grateful to the members of the community who provided the information that led to this successful operation.”
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