A 45-year-old Zimbabwean national has been remanded in custody after allegedly attempting to smuggle manufactured tobacco worth approximately R3.8 million through the Groblersbrug Port of Entry.
Shumba Munetsi was arrested on Monday by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) Border Policing unit after officers reportedly became suspicious of a concealed compartment underneath a trailer.
According to police, officers searched the vehicle and discovered 521 plastic bags containing approximately 7,294 kilograms of suspected manufactured tobacco hidden inside the compartment.
The Volvo truck and LP gas trailer were also seized. Their combined estimated value is R1.8 million.
Munetsi appeared before the Phalala Magistrate's Court on Wednesday, where he was remanded in custody.
The matter was postponed to 31 August for a formal bail application.
Investigations into the alleged smuggling operation are continuing.