Three Bangladeshi Nationals Arrested in Brits with R4.5 Million Worth of Contraband Cigarettes Captured by Police

Brits – Law enforcement has confiscated illegal cigarettes valued at R4.5 million during a “takedown operation” in Brits, North West.

According to police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk, three individuals from Bangladesh were taken into custody during the raid for violating the Immigration Act.

This operation was spearheaded by the National Counterfeit Goods Unit, with assistance from Crime Intelligence and the South African Revenue Service.

The operation involved a combined team from various units of the South African Police Service (SAPS), which included the National Intervention Unit, Tactical Response Team, K9 Unit, Rapid Rail Police Unit, and Flying Squad.

The law enforcement officials deployed in North West as part of Operation Vala Umgodi to combat illegal mining also contributed to this operation.

“Although mainly focused on addressing illicit mining, these members also address other criminal activities across the provinces,” stated Lieutenant Colonel Van Wyk.

“SAPS is dedicated to dismantling the illegal trade of counterfeit and illicit goods that pose threats to consumers, harm legitimate businesses, and jeopardize the national economy.”