SANDF intercepts stolen vehicles at borders

STOLEN vehicles valued at more than R26 million were intercepted over the past three months by SANDF troops manning the borders as part of the long-running Operation Corona before they could be whisked into neighbouring countries.

SANDF spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Seitebatso Pearl Block said contraband goods valued at more than R30 million, coming into South Africa from mainly Zimbabwe and Mozambique have also been confiscated by SANDF troops deployed for border safeguarding the past three months.

“From January 1 to March 31, the soldiers confiscated contraband goods to the value of R30 988 844, most of which came from Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

“Stolen vehicles to the value of R26 393 531 were intercepted before they could illegally cross the borders.

“Narcotics valued at R21 473 511 have been confiscated by troops deployed in four provinces – KwaZuluNatal, Mpumalanga, the Eastern Cape and the Free State.”

Block said the SANDF troops have broken their records with regards to confiscating contraband goods, narcotics and intercepting stolen vehicles.

“Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, the troops deployed at our borders continued to apprehend undocumented persons; prevented livestock theft and seized people guiding these livestock towards the borderline.”

Block said over 12 500 undocumented persons were apprehended by the SANDF and handed over to the SAPS. “All confiscated goods were declared and handed over to state departments, including the SAPS and SARS/ Customs.”