Police seize R575k illicit cigarettes in Hoedspruit
Members of the Hoedspruit Farm Watch initiative assisted police during the interception of a suspect vehicle in the early hours of the morning.
HOEDSPRUIT – Hoedspruit police, working together with a local Farm Watch initiative, have seized illicit cigarettes valued at more than R575 000 during an operation in the early hours of Thursday (June 4).
Vehicle intercepted after intelligence tip-off
Police say they received information about a suspected vehicle travelling from Gauteng and allegedly transporting illicit cigarettes into the Hoedspruit policing area.
An operation was activated, and members of police and Farm Watch later spotted and intercepted a silver Volkswagen Tiguan SUV with Gauteng registration.
Driver flees scene
According to police, the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot, evading arrest.
A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of 23 boxes of illicit cigarettes with an estimated street value of R575 000.
Seizures and investigation
The vehicle and the illicit goods were seized by police.
Investigations are continuing, and police are appealing to anyone with information that may assist in tracing the suspect to come forward.
Information can be provided to investigating officer Sergeant Jabulani Mashaba on 076 852 0004, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, the nearest police station, or via the MySAPS App.
