From protectors to perpetrators: robbery of foreign illicit cigarette traders
Statement by Stanley Manaka, Provincial Chairperson of the United Democratic Movement in Limpopo
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in Limpopo adds its voice to our national leadership’s growing alarm over the spread of illicit trade and criminal collusion within the state. The recent arrest of four police officers and a civilian for allegedly robbing an Ethiopian family in Mashishing (Lydenburg) of almost R1 million in cash and illicit cigarettes worth R1.5 million further illustrates the depth of this crisis.
Limpopo shares multiple border gates with neighbouring countries, including Beitbridge, Groblersbrug, and Pontdrift; all of which remain vulnerable to cross-border smuggling, corruption, and organised criminal activity. The involvement of police officers in this crime shows how these syndicates are being enabled from within, eroding public trust and compromising national security.
Reports confirm that the suspects used both marked and private vehicles, including a South African Police Service (SAPS) Flying Squad VW Golf, during the robbery. Investigators later recovered SAPS-issued firearms, ammunition, and a bulletproof vest, as well as tampered vehicle number plates and hidden cash. Such conduct by officers sworn to protect the public represents a grave betrayal of duty and a reflection of systemic failure in law enforcement oversight.
At the same time, the incident exposes how South Africans and foreign nationals have become intertwined in criminal networks trading in illicit cigarettes, alcohol, and other contraband. While foreign nationals are often visible in these operations, local enablers, including corrupt officials, play an equally destructive role in sustaining this criminal economy.
The UDM in Limpopo calls for urgent action.
1. The Department of Home Affairs and the Border Management Authority, under Minister Leon Schreiber, must reinforce all border points in Limpopo with well-trained and properly resourced border management units.
2. The Ministry of Defence and Military Veterans and the Ministry of Police must root out corruption within the ranks of the South African National Defence Force and the SAPS through transparent investigations, swift prosecutions, and the dismissal of all those found guilty of collusion or criminality.
3. The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks), the South African Police Service, the South African National Defence Force, and the South African Revenue Service must coordinate operations under the oversight of the Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services to effectively dismantle cross-border criminal networks.
4. Parliament’s Portfolio Committees on Defence, Police, Home Affairs, and Finance, together with the Limpopo Provincial Legislature, must intensify oversight of border management and defence operations to ensure transparency and accountability.
5. The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, in partnership with local municipalities and civil society organisations, must launch community vigilance and awareness campaigns to expose smuggling networks and promote lawful, safe economic activity.
This incident is not isolated. It forms part of a wider pattern that undermines the rule of law and endangers honest officers who continue to serve with integrity. Limpopo’s strategic position at the country’s northern gateway demands decisive action and visible leadership to restore order and credibility.
The UDM in Limpopo aligns itself with the call made by the UDM at national level for stronger border control, anti-corruption reforms, and a coordinated fight against the criminal syndicates weakening South Africa’s governance and economy.
