POLOKWANE – The members of the Lephalale K9 Unit and Crime Prevention Unit have arrested a 42-year-old foreign male suspect for dealing in and possession of illicit cigarettes in Lephalale town on Friday, 02 October 2026 at around 13:00.
It is reported that police were on duty conducting an operation when they spotted the 42-year-old male suspect carrying a large bag.
He was followed on foot and entered a supermarket. Police requested to search the bag and found illicit cigarettes inside.
Upon questioning, the suspect allegedly indicated that he had stored more cigarettes at a rental premises and also revealed that the cigarettes are not legal in South Africa.
The police proceeded to the premises where a large quantity of illicit cigarettes was found and seized.
The suspect was immediately arrested for dealing in and possession of illicit cigarettes. The value of the seized cigarettes is estimated at R150 000.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Lephalale Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 05 October 2026.
Police investigations are continuing.