Zimbabwean truck driver remanded after R3.8m tobacco seizure at Groblersbrug

A 45-year-old Zimbabwean man has been remanded in custody after authorities say they found R3.8 million worth of manufactured tobacco hidden in an LP gas trailer at the Groblersbrug Port of Entry. The accused made his first court appearance at the Phalala Magistrate’s Court following his arrest.

Arrest at the border

Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) Border Policing team arrested the accused, Shumba Munetsi, 45, after stopping a Volvo truck towing an LP gas trailer at the arrival gate on Monday, August 24.

According to Limpopo provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the vehicle was subjected to an initial inspection and then referred for a more thorough search. “The truck and trailer were subjected to an initial inspection and subsequently referred for a more thorough search.”

Hidden compartment and discovery

Ledwaba said officers became suspicious after finding a large concealed hatch underneath the trailer. “The construction and position of the hatch appeared to provide access to the interior of the trailer and raised suspicions that it could be used to conceal goods.”

When questioned about the concealed compartment, the driver allegedly admitted the trailer was not carrying gas. “The concealed hatch was opened in the presence of the police members, who discovered 521 plastic bags containing approximately 7 294 kilograms of suspected manufactured tobacco concealed underneath the trailer.”

Seizures, value and court process

Ledwaba stated the suspected tobacco has an estimated value of R3.8 million. The Volvo truck and LP gas trailer were also seized; their combined estimated value is R1.8 million.

Munetsi appeared in court on Wednesday, August 26. The matter was postponed to Monday, August 31 for a formal bail application and he remains in custody.

Investigation and police response

Ledwaba said an investigation is continuing to establish the origin and intended destination of the suspected illicit tobacco, and to determine whether other people are linked to the alleged smuggling operation.

Limpopo provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Petrus Scheepers welcomed the border policing team’s work, saying the members displayed vigilance and commitment. Scheepers added:

“SAPS will continue to intensify operations at ports of entry and other strategic points to disrupt the smuggling of illicit goods and protect the country’s economy from organised criminal activities.”