POLOKWANE – A suspected illicit cigarette delivery came to an abrupt end near Boyne on Monday when a driver abandoned a vehicle containing cigarettes worth an estimated R50 000.

Members of the Limpopo Flying Squad in the Capricorn District were responding to information about a vehicle allegedly being used to transport illicit cigarettes in the Mankweng area when they spotted a white Haval H6 matching the description.

Police attempted to stop the vehicle by activating their blue lights and siren, but the driver allegedly refused to stop and sped off towards a gravel road.

The vehicle was later found abandoned, with two of its tyres punctured and no occupants inside.

Two sets of number plates found

During an inspection of the vehicle, police discovered two sets of number plates inside.

Investigators are following up on the vehicle and its registration details as part of the ongoing investigation.

A search of the vehicle also uncovered a quantity of illicit cigarettes concealed behind the seats. Police estimate the street value of the cigarettes at approximately R50 000.

The vehicle and cigarettes were seized and will form part of the investigation.

Police searching for suspects

Limpopo provincial commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers commended the Flying Squad members for their alertness and swift response, which resulted in the recovery of both the suspected illicit cigarettes and the vehicle allegedly used to transport them.

“Operational teams will continue with efforts to track and trace the suspects who abandoned the vehicle,” police said.

No arrests have been reported at this stage.

Police investigations are continuing.