Zimbabwean Man Arrested at Beitbridge Border for Smuggling Explosives

A 48-year-old Zimbabwean was arrested at Beitbridge for possessing explosives worth over R600,000. Police discovered the explosives after forcibly opening a trailer truck. Major General Gopz Govender praised the operation, highlighting the ongoing fight against transnational crime. Similar past incidents show persistent efforts to regulate dangerous materials at borders.

In a significant border incident, authorities apprehended a 48-year-old Zimbabwean man accused of unlawfully possessing explosives valued at over R600,000. This arrest occurred at the Beitbridge Port of Entry when police halted a trailer truck traveling from Zimbabwe to South Africa, as reported by Limpopo police. Upon requesting the driver to unlock the trailer for inspection, the driver claimed lack of keys, prompting police to forcibly access the trailer, leading to the discovery of suspected explosives.

The provincial spokesperson for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Warrant Officer Lethunya Mmuroa, stated that bags containing suspected explosives were found within the trailer. Following this alarming discovery, specialized teams including Musina-based Bomb Technicians and Hawks Serious Organised Crime Investigation were summoned for a thorough examination of the vehicle.

Upon further inspection, the team uncovered 16 reels of detonating fuse explosives, 2,182 superpowers, and 90 blasting cartridges. The suspect was subsequently arrested and is expected to appear in the Musina Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday. Major General Gopz Govender, head of Hawks in Limpopo, praised the operation, highlighting its role in combatting transnational crime.

In a related incident earlier in February, a 37-year-old South African man was arrested while attempting to enter Eswatini with 12 Magex Maxam blasting explosives known for their use in mining and construction due to their explosive properties. The Royal Eswatini Police Service conducted the arrest during routine border checks, leading to an ongoing investigation into that case.

The recent arrests at Beitbridge and the Mananga Border Gate signify a robust response by law enforcement to combat illegal smuggling of explosives, essential for ensuring public safety. The efforts reflected by both the Hawks and the Royal Eswatini Police Service demonstrate a commitment to curtail transnational crime and maintain order across borders. Such operations serve as a testament to the effectiveness of vigilant border patrol and crime prevention strategies.

Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com