Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
A Zimbabwean truck driver has been arrested at the Beitbridge Border Post after smuggling a contraband of explosives worth close to R770 000 into South Africa.
Edgar Maroto (42) was busted soon after entering South Africa on Friday.
The Limpopo Serious Organised Crime Investigation (Hawks) spokesperson, Colonel Avele Fumba said Maroto appeared at the Musina Magistrate’s Court facing a charge of possession of explosives.
The matter was postponed to April 20 to allow authorities to conduct further investigations and for a formal bail application to be made.
Maroto remains in custody.
“The Limpopo Serious Organised Crime Investigation confirms developments in a matter relating to the interception of a consignment of explosives at the Beitbridge Port of Entry on April 10,” said Colonel Fumba.
“The interception followed a well-coordinated, intelligence-driven operation, led with critical strategic input from the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
“SARS played a pivotal role in guiding the operation, working in seamless collaboration with the Limpopo Serious Organised Crime Investigation, the Border Management Authority (BMA) and Musina SAPS,” he said.
Colonel Fumba said the truck had a trailer with a concealed compartment, which was used to hide the explosives.
When the truck was searched, a substantial cache of explosives, including blasting cartridges, connector capsules and a detonator fuse, was allegedly discovered.
The truck was confiscated, bringing the total estimated value of seized items to R2 769 000.
Commissioner of the Border Management Authority, Dr Michael Masiapato commended the border agencies’ vigilance, which resulted in the interception of the truck.
“I commend the team for working together with our border management stakeholders. They displayed vigilance,” said Dr Masiapato.
“This interception is part of our daily stop-and-search operations at all our ports of entry to ensure that only legitimate goods get into the country.”
The smuggling of explosives between South Africa and Zimbabwe has become a perennial headache for border security agencies.
The explosives are reportedly being used for illegal mining activities in Limpopo, Free State, and Gauteng Provinces.
