Ethiopian suspects arrested for possession of counterfeit cigarettes
The two suspects were also found in possession of R 25 000 in cash. It was established the suspects were from Ethiopia.
Newcastle Police cluster war room and visual police section (VPS) arrested two suspects on November 24 following an operation around the N11. The operation was aimed at dealing with the ongoing theft of motorcycles and the transportation of stolen or illegal goods around Newcastle nearing the festive season.
During the operation, a Toyota panel-van was stopped and searched. Officials discovered 29 cases of cigarettes with a street value of R 345 000 hidden under packets of chips, toilet paper and bread crates.
The two suspects were also found in possession of R 25 000 in cash. It was established the suspects were from Ethiopia.
Further investigation regarding the documentation of the suspects is under way.
The suspects are expected to appear at Newcastle Magistrate’s court soon.
