The South African Police Service in (SAPS) Springbok, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, conducted a multi-disciplinary, intelligence-driven operation on 24 July 2025, at a retail store at the Petrus Kotze Centre in Port Nolloth, resulting in the seizure of illicit tobacco products.
During a compliance inspection, members found a significant quantity of illicit tobacco products, with an estimated value of R240 333-00.
A 28-year-old male Pakistani national, was issued a warning and summoned for further investigation by Customs officials from Vioolsdrift.
The suspect is facing charges of possession of illicit tobacco.
The District Commissioner of Namakwa, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, commended the joint efforts by the Springbok SAPS Task Team, Customs, Springbok and Crime Intelligence. He also cited that the selling, storing and peddling of any illicit products in district will not be tolerated and compliance inspections will be intensified in the quest to dismantle these activities and the sale of such items.
