South African National Defence Force military police intercepted a parcel containing suspected marijuana concealed inside packets of Doritos.
The Central Military Police stopped the parcel on 9 July at the Department of Defence Mobilisation Centre. Military personnel were conducting vehicle checkpoint duties when they discovered the suspicious delivery at approximately 14:30.
An unidentified civilian reportedly delivered the parcel. It was allegedly intended for a quarantine area accommodating SANDF members who had returned from a United Nations mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Suspected Drugs Hidden Inside Snack Packets
Military personnel inspected the parcel and found two packets of Doritos. Two bags containing a substance suspected to be marijuana were allegedly concealed inside the snack packets.
The military police seized the suspected drugs as evidence. The SANDF estimated that the substance had a street value of approximately R1 000.
Officials booked the case at the Bloemfontein Military Police Area Office. Authorities disposed of the perishable goods in line with South African Police Service procedures. No arrests were reported in connection with the intercepted parcel.
SANDF Promises Action Against Misconduct
Regional Provost Marshal Colonel LB Mashilo praised the military police officers involved in the interception.
Mashilo said the incident demonstrated the officers’ vigilance and professionalism while countering illegal activities and protecting the SANDF’s integrity.
He said the Central Military Police Region remained committed to enforcing discipline, applying military law and ensuring public accountability.
“Transparency and decisive action are essential to maintaining the trust of the South African people and the credibility of our defence force,” Mashilo said.
The SANDF said it would continue strengthening its operations to identify and investigate breaches of discipline.
Mashilo added that officials would pursue prosecution where necessary and act against misconduct “without compromise”.
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