Limpopo police have seized illicit cigarettes worth an estimated R50,000 after a vehicle allegedly linked to the illegal cigarette trade was abandoned in the Mankweng policing area.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), Flying Squad members in the Capricorn District received information on Monday, 28 September, about a vehicle allegedly being used to deliver illicit cigarettes in the Mankweng area.
Police said officers responded to the information and travelled towards Boyne, where they spotted a white Haval H6 matching the description of the suspected vehicle.
The members attempted to stop the vehicle by activating their blue lights and siren. However, the driver allegedly failed to stop and continued towards a gravel road.
Police later located the vehicle abandoned, with two punctured tyres and no occupants.
During a search of the vehicle, officers allegedly discovered two sets of number plates, which are now being examined as part of the investigation.
Police also found a quantity of illicit cigarettes concealed behind the vehicle’s seats. SAPS estimated the street value of the cigarettes at approximately R50,000.
The vehicle and cigarettes were seized for further investigation.
SAPS said preliminary investigations into the vehicle and its registration details were under way.
Police operational teams are continuing efforts to identify and track down the suspects who allegedly abandoned the vehicle.
The investigation remains ongoing, and no arrests have been reported in connection with the seizure.