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Limpopo Police Bust Smuggling Ring: Ethiopian National Arrested

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Picture: SAPS

The Vala Umgodi Task Team has made a significant breakthrough in the fight against illicit trade and money laundering. A 33-year-old Ethiopian national was arrested on January 15, 2025, in Waterval, Vhembe District, during an operation targeting illegal activities in the area.

While patrolling Ha-Mabobo village near the Hubyeni Complex in Elim, officers spotted a suspicious vehicle around 12:30 PM. Upon searching the car, they discovered over 40 cartons of illicit cigarettes valued at approximately R8,000 on the street market.

Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Thakeng said the suspect was immediately detained and questioned.

The investigation led officers to a house in Ha-Mabobo village. Inside, they found R470,000 in cash hidden under a bed and a money-counting machine.

“This discovery added money laundering charges to the list of offenses against the suspect,” Thakeng confirmed.

The suspect appeared briefly in the Waterval Magistrate’s Court on January 16, where he was remanded in custody pending further investigations.

In a related operation, two men were arrested in Bungeni village for contravening immigration laws. The suspects were found working illegally at a local brickyard.

Thakeng noted that the company owner employing the illegal immigrants was issued a fine for their involvement.

The Vala Umgodi Task Team continues its efforts to disrupt smuggling and illegal activities in Limpopo. The arrests highlight the growing problem of illicit trade and its links to money laundering in the region.

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