Mpumalanga police seize R4m dagga consignment at Oshoek, one arrested

Mpumalanga police have arrested a suspect and confiscated a large consignment of dagga at the Oshoek Port of Entry. The seizure took place during a border-control operation on the arrival side from the Kingdom of Eswatini into South Africa.

What happened

Police said the operation took place at about 1:30am on Monday morning. Officers conducting search duties discovered 49 bags containing suspected dagga, with a combined weight of approximately 630 kilograms and an estimated street value of over R4 million. A suspect was arrested and detained at the scene.

Vehicle and ownership details

The seized vehicle was described as a Volvo horse and trailer bearing Kingdom of Eswatini registration number plates. Police said the truck reportedly belonged to a logistics company based in the Kingdom of Eswatini, and it was also seized.

Legal process and investigation

The suspect is expected to appear in court on charges relating to dealing in dagga. Police said investigations are continuing to establish the origin and intended destination of the consignment and to determine whether other persons may be involved in the illegal drug trade.

Reaction from police leadership

Lieutenant General Apaphia Modise, the Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga, welcomed the arrest and seizure and stressed the need for intensified border law enforcement. She said:

“The successful interception of this substantial consignment demonstrates the determination of our Police members to remain vigilant at our Ports of Entry. We are aware that traffickers often try their luck at our Borders in the province to carry out their criminal activities; however, this success demonstrates that our plan to combat cross-border activities is working. We will continue to strengthen our operations and collaboration with other stakeholders.”

Police said investigations are continuing.