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Sindisiwe Sibanda, Sunday News Reporter
POLICE in Matabeleland South Province last week seized an assortment of goods worth more than R300 000 from suspected smugglers, before handing them over to customs officials.
The suspected smugglers then paid $145 222 and USD$221 in duty.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the matter, saying police had launched an anti-smuggling campaign, which was yielding results.
“Police in Matabeleland South embarked on an anti-smuggling operation, where they managed to intercept six vehicles and recovered an assortment of smuggled goods,” said Asst Comm Nyathi.
Asst Comm Nyathi said the confiscated goods and the suspected smugglers were handed over to customs officials, where they were made to pay duty as required by the law.
“Members of the public are urged to comply with customs and excise procedures when importing goods into the country,” said Asst Comm Nyathi.
Last month, 16 suspects were arrested over illegal imports of goods worth nearly R1 million.
“A total of 14 vehicles were captured and detained during the ongoing anti-smuggling operation.
The Matabeleland South anti-smuggling team intercepted 14 vehicles, which were carrying smuggled goods into the country from South Africa.
The total value of the smuggled goods was R946 961. Police also arrested 16 suspects in connection with smuggling on 15 September 2019.
The suspects included cross-border traders (omalayitsha) and other individuals,” said Asst Comm Nyathi.
He said police had also recovered vehicles that were being smuggled into the country through illegal entry points along the Limpopo River.
@macindie
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