A gang's attempt to smuggle goods into South Africa hit a major snag after the South African Police Service (SAPS) thwarted their operations and seized their goods.
Police said the confiscated items, which were likely being smuggled across the border, include alcoholic beverages, energy drinks, baked goods, flour, and other consumer goods, along with a chest fridge.
Limpopo police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Thakeng, said the items were confiscated along the Limpopo River, in the Musina policing area in Saturday morning.
"At around 11.20am, the SAPS Operations Vala Umgodi National Prevention team was conducting a routine patrol near the Tshirundu village when they received a tip-off about eight boats loading goods," Thakeng said.
He said when the gang saw police, they got back into the boats and fled back to Zimbabwe, abandoning their loot.
The team's efforts were hailed by provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe.
"Well done to the team for their swift and decisive action, noting that the success of the operation highlights the SAPS’s ongoing commitment to combating cross-border crimes and illegal trade activities," Hadebe said.
All seized items have been registered at the Musina SAPS for further investigation and processing.