R10m worth of illicit cigarettes seized by joint law enforcement operation in WC

JOHANNESBURG - An estimated R10 million worth of illicit cigarettes and a truck have been seized in a multi-agency operation in Swellendam, in the Western Cape.

The bust, which took place earlier this week, was the result of a joint effort between the Hawks’ serious commercial crime investigation team, Swellendam South African Police Service (SAPS) members, the Syndicated Tax and Custom Crime Unit, and the South African Revenue Services (SARS) Illicit Economy Activities Unit.

Police said on 11 September, they were tipped off about a truck possibly carrying illicit cigarettes from Mossel Bay to a shop in Swellendam. 

Officers intercepted and searched the vehicle and uncovered the illegal cargo. 

Police spokesperson Zinzi Hani said a day later, a 44-year-old shop owner was arrested in connection with the crime.

“The suspect will make his first appearance on Monday,15 September 2025, on charges of fraud, forgery, uttering and contravention of sections of the Customs and Excise Act. The origin of the recovered items will be determined by the ongoing investigations.”