By Staff Report
DELMAS – Police in Delmas successfully intercepted a major consignment of illicit cigarettes valued at an estimated R17.4 million, which were being transported concealed inside large water tanks. One suspect, a 43-year-old man from the Kingdom of Eswatini, has been arrested.
The arrest took place on Friday, 05 December 2025, at around 22:00 after police spotted a suspicious truck with two trailers in Sundra. Officers stopped the vehicle and conducted an inspection. The load consisted of twelve 5 000-litre water tanks.
Upon further investigation, police discovered that the tanks were filled to capacity with various brands of illicit cigarette cartons. In total, 25 pallets of illegal cigarettes were recovered.
According to authorities, members of the Delmas Police, assisted by Sundra Police Station officers and local security companies, acted on intelligence that illegal tobacco products were being transported in water tanks.
The suspect was arrested for possession of illicit goods and is expected to appear before the Delmas District Court on Monday, 08 December 2025.
Police investigations into the origin and intended destination of the contraband are ongoing.
