The 46 year-old Matthews Ncube, who was apprehended by Police at the Groblersburg Port of Entry for attempting to smuggle a significant quantity of illicit creams into the country, was remanded in custody when he appeared before Lephalale Magistrate’s Court on Thursday 23 May 2024. He was remanded in custody until 06 June 2024 for formal bail application. The suspect, who is a foreign national from Zimbabwe, was intercepted during a routine inspection at the border post.

The operation, led by vigilant officers stationed at Groblersburg, took place on the evening of Tuesday, 21 May 2024. The officers conducted a thorough search of the suspect’s truck, which resulted in the discovery of multiple containers of illicit creams concealed within the cargo area. The contraband, valued at approximately R126,000-00 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.

Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, the Provincial Commissioner of Limpopo, commended the officers for their hard work and swift action. “We are committed to combating illegal smuggling activities and protecting our borders. We will continue to enhance our efforts to prevent such crimes,” she stated.