THE Musina police arrested another seven Zimbabwean nationals for allegedly transporting illegal explosives into South Africa through the Beit Bridge port of entry late Friday evening.
Provincial police spokesperson, Brig Hangwani Mulaudzi said information was received that the explosives would be smuggled across the border. He said an operation was staged and the vehicle suspected to be carrying the explosives was stopped, searched and allegedly found loaded with explosives (12 detonators and 12 blasting cartridges) hidden under a panel.
“The driver and 13 other passengers were detained at the Musina police station. Seven of the suspects were interviewed, but could not be linked and were released. The remaining seven people including the driver appeared before the Musina magistrate’s court on charges of possession and smuggling of explosives. They were denied bail and the case was postponed to August 19 for another bail application.
“There has been an increase in the number of Zimbabweans being arrested in South Africa with explosives. Last month, 14 undocumented Zimbabweans were arrested with 100 detonators and their case is still ongoing in court,” Mulaudzi said.
• In a separate incident, three suspected rhino poachers from Mozambique were arrested inside a private farm in Gravelotte early Friday morning. “The three were allegedly lying in wait to shoot and dehorn a rhino. Their plans were frustrated after police surprised them, and they were arrested on the spot. They were allegedly found in possession of an unlicensed 3.75 rifle with ammunition,” Mulaudzi said.
The three men, a 16-year-old minor, Phineas Baloyi (47) and Phillip Xihlangu (44) appeared briefly before the local magistrate’s court on charges of illegal poaching and possession of an unlicensed firearm. They are expected to appear again on Friday.
