A desperate attempt to evade arrest ended with a R1.3 million Range Rover being driven into the Limpopo River during an anti-smuggling operation along the South Africa-Zimbabwe border.
The vehicle was among a haul of contraband seized by South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers during a series of operations in Limpopo.
Members of the 4 Artillery Regiment, deployed under Joint Operations Limpopo, recovered the luxury vehicle after suspects allegedly drove it into the river while trying to escape.
According to the SANDF, the suspects abandoned the scene and fled, leaving soldiers to recover the vehicle from the water.
The dramatic recovery formed part of a wider crackdown targeting illegal cross-border activity.
In a separate operation in the Malalahoek area, soldiers confiscated illicit goods valued at R44,000.
Troops also intercepted a consignment of illicit cigarettes near Echo Station 1. The cigarettes were valued at R2,344,845.
Together, the seizures amounted to approximately R3.69 million, highlighting the scale of the illicit trade being targeted by authorities operating along the border.
The SANDF said its troops remain focused on disrupting smuggling networks and preventing illegal goods from crossing the border.
The military praised the members of the 4 Artillery Regiment for what it described as relentless operations, particularly at night when some border activities take place.
The seizures also demonstrate the challenges facing security personnel operating across the Limpopo border, where the terrain and river provide opportunities for suspects attempting to evade authorities.
The recovery of the Range Rover is likely to add to investigations into the suspected smuggling operation, while the confiscated cigarettes and other goods have been removed from circulation.
The SANDF has not provided details about arrests linked to the seizures.
Authorities are expected to maintain intensified patrols and operations along the border as part of efforts to curb cross-border crime and illicit trade.