SAPS seize R4.5 million worth of illicit cigarettes in Brits
The police in the North West have seized illicit cigarettes worth R4.5 million and arrested three suspects during a takedown operation in Brits.
The suspects, who are all Bangladeshi nationals, were also charged with contravening the Immigration Act.
Police spokesperson Amanda van Wyk said the operation was spearheaded by the National Counterfeit Goods Unit, with assistance from Crime Intelligence and the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
"A multi-disciplinary team, comprising SAPS members from various specialised units, including the National Intervention Unit (NIU), Tactical Response Team (TRT), K9 Unit, Rapid Rail Police Unit, and Flying Squad, deployed in North West as part of Operation Vala Umgodi also formed part of the operation.”
"While primarily focused on combating illicit mining, these members also target other criminal activities within the provinces," said Van Wyk.
Van Wyk emphasised the importance of disrupting the trade of counterfeit and illicit goods.
“These illegal products not only endanger consumers but also cause significant harm to legitimate businesses and weaken the economy.”
“The South African Police Service remains steadfast in its commitment to rooting out such criminal enterprises,” she said.
The three suspects remain in custody, and further investigations are underway.
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