Middelburg Shop Owner Arrested as Hawks Seize R3.4 Million in Illicit Cigarettes

A Middelburg shop owner has been arrested after the Hawks uncovered illicit cigarettes worth R3.4 million in a major operation targeting illegal trade.

The 40-year-old suspect, an Indian national, appeared in the Middelburg Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday following the discovery of the contraband. According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Magonseni Nkosi, law enforcement acted on intelligence that led them to the suspect’s premises, where they confiscated the illicit goods.

The Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation unit is working alongside SARS Customs to trace the origin of the illicit cigarettes and determine how they were smuggled into the country. Authorities are also investigating the suspect’s immigration status, with officials from the Department of Home Affairs involved in the inquiry.

Mpumalanga Hawks head, Major General Nico Gerber, warned of the dangers posed by illicit cigarettes, highlighting both their health risks and economic impact.

“These cigarettes contain harmful substances, including high levels of tar, nicotine, and other toxic chemicals. If such products are smuggled into the country, they not only pose a health risk but also impact the economy as smugglers evade taxes and regulations,” Gerber said.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to cracking down on illegal cigarette trade and smuggling networks that undermine government revenue and public health.

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