Police seize R35,000 worth of illicit cigarettes during an operation in Polokwane, leading to the arrest of a Zimbabwean national.
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A 25-year-old Zimbabwean national has appeared before the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court after being arrested for allegedly possessing and transporting illicit cigarettes valued at an estimated R35,000.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Limpopo, Eldrie Ngwenya appeared in court on Monday, 6 July 2026, facing charges related to the possession and transportation of illicit cigarettes. The matter was postponed, and he was remanded in custody until July 9 2026 for further court proceedings.
Police said Ngwenya was arrested on Sunday, 5 July 2026, during an intelligence-driven operation conducted by members of the Limpopo Provincial Flying Squad.
Authorities had received information about a white Audi A4 allegedly being used to transport and distribute illicit Remington Gold cigarettes in Polokwane and Tzaneen.
“The vehicle was traced and stopped in the Ladanna policing precinct. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a large quantity of illicit Remington Gold cigarettes to the estimated value of R35 000. The driver was arrested at the scene,” SAPS said in a statement.
The seizure forms part of ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to curb the illegal tobacco trade, which authorities say deprives the state of tax revenue and fuels organised criminal activity.
Acting Limpopo Provincial Police Commissioner, Major General Jan Scheepers, praised officers involved in the operation.
“Major General Jan Scheepers commended the Provincial Flying Squad members for their vigilance and swift action in disrupting the illegal cigarette trade,” the statement said.
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