The Border Management Authority says it has made a major breakthrough against drug smuggling after intercepting a truck at Beitbridge carrying methaqualone valued at nearly R1 billion.
According to the source, the intelligence-driven operation was coordinated through the BMA’s National Targeting Centre.
The truck was identified while travelling through Zimbabwe toward Beitbridge. When it arrived at the border post, officials were ready to intercept it.
The vehicle was examined using a truck scanner on site. Authorities then discovered a hidden compartment inside the truck.
Hidden compartment found in truck
The BMA said officers spent more than eight hours dismantling parts of the truck before finding the substance.
The seized substance was later confirmed to be methaqualone, also known as ABBA.
Methaqualone is commonly used in the manufacture of mandrax, a drug that has long been linked to illegal markets in South Africa.
The Hawks and K9 units were called in after the discovery.
Authorities seized 713 000 grams of the substance. The estimated value of the consignment is R998.2 million.
That places the seizure just under the R1 billion mark.
Three suspects arrested
Three Malawian suspects were arrested after the interception.
They were taken to the Musina Police Station.
According to the source, the Hawks will conduct further investigations into the matter.
The arrests come as border authorities face growing pressure to stop cross-border smuggling, organised crime and the movement of illicit goods into South Africa.
Schreiber hails border breakthrough
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber described the interception as a historic breakthrough in the fight against smuggling and drugs.
He said the operation showed the impact of intelligence-led investigations, digital systems and the work of the BMA at South Africa’s borders.
Schreiber said the case demonstrated that the rule of law was being rebuilt at the country’s ports of entry.
The seizure also puts renewed focus on Beitbridge, one of South Africa’s busiest border crossings and a key route for trade and movement between South Africa and the region.
Authorities have not yet provided further details on the suspects’ court appearance or the origin and intended destination of the consignment.