Two Zimbabwean nationals have been arrested in South Africa after police uncovered illicit cigarettes worth nearly R2 million hidden beneath a load of coal at the Groblersbrug Port of Entry in Limpopo.

The suspects, aged 23 and 35, were arrested on Friday following an intelligence-led operation involving Border Policing and Customs officials in the Waterberg District.

Limpopo provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said officers received information at around 11 am about a truck suspected of transporting illicit cigarettes through the border post.

Acting on the tip-off, officers positioned themselves at the port and intercepted the truck when it arrived.

A preliminary inspection raised suspicions that prohibited goods could be concealed beneath the coal, prompting officers to move the truck to a designated search area for a thorough inspection.

After the coal was offloaded, police discovered bags containing master cartons of illicit cigarettes hidden underneath the load.

A total of 4,800 cartons were seized, comprising 4,050 cartons of Remington Gold and 750 cartons of Swan cigarettes.

Police estimated the value of the seized cigarettes at R1,996,800.

Authorities also impounded a white and red International truck and two Afrit Tubmaster tipper trailers, with a combined estimated value of R854,250.

The two suspects, both Zimbabwean nationals, are expected to appear before the Phalala Magistrate’s Court on Monday, August 24, 2026, where they will face charges linked to the alleged smuggling of illicit cigarettes.

Limpopo provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers praised the officers involved, stressing the importance of cooperation between law-enforcement agencies in tackling cross-border criminal networks.

“The cooperation between law-enforcement agencies at our ports of entry remains critical in disrupting these criminal networks,” Scheepers said.