Beauty creams valued at R126 000 seized at Botswana border

A man was arrested for attempting to sneak a load of beauty cream into South Africa.

Matthews Ncube, a 46-year-old Zimbabwean national, was arrested in Groblersburg on Tuesday following a routine inspection of his vehicle at the Botswana border.

Police found several containers of product concealed within the cargo area which had just crossed into the country.

He appeared in the Lephalale Magistrate’s Court on Thursday and has been remanded in custody until 6 June for his bail application.  

ALSO READ: Study: Africa leads in illegal drug smuggling, piracy, fishing

“The contraband, valued at approximately R126 000 was immediately confiscated. Preliminary investigations suggest that the creams were intended for illegal distribution within South Africa. The suspect is facing charges related to smuggling and contravention of customs regulations,” confirmed Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba.

Limpopo police commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembi Hadebe commended the officers, committing to fighting illegal smuggling activities in her jurisdiction.

Limpopo police seize Zimbabwe-bound bakkie

Police in Limpopo arrested a man in February for being in possession of a stolen bakkie valued at over R1 million.

ALSO READ: All about fighting smuggling on the Lesotho border

The 33-year-old’s arrest came during a provincial campaign clamping down on illegal smuggling by targeting hotspots known for illicit trade and smuggling.

The vehicle was intercepted in Polokwane en route to Zimbabwe where it was suspected it would be smuggled through the Beitbridge border post.

Suspect killed for grabbing officer’s weapon

Earlier in the year, a suspect attacked Limpopo police officers responding to a domestic issue. The suspect assaulted an officer and removed his gun while the officer was on the floor.

ALSO READ: Suspect shot dead after attacking and ‘disarming’ police officer

No mercy was shown to the suspect, who was immediately shot by fellow officers on the scene.

Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) was informed of the incident and is currently investigating it.