Foreign Nationals Arraigned in Limpopo Over R2 Million Drug Bust

THABAZIMBI — Two foreign nationals, Cuthbert Derera 30, and Wishborn Fufa 39, faced Thabazimbi Magistrate Court on Monday charged with possession of dagga and violating South Africa’s Medicines Act after authorities intercepted a truck carrying illicit drugs worth R2 million near Lephalale enroute to Groblersbrug border post .

Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said a joint operation involving Northam SAPS, Thabazimbi SAPS, and Zimbi Security intercepted the vehicle on the R510 highway to Lephalale on September 13.

A search uncovered 40 bales of Swazi-origin dagga valued at R1.5 million and codeine-based pharmaceuticals, including Benylin and Bronclear, worth R500,000.

“The suspects failed to provide documentation for the cargo’s origin,” said Ledwaba. The pair, arrested at the scene, were remanded until September 22 for a formal bail application.

Limpopo Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe praised the team’s “vigilance” in disrupting cross-border smuggling operations. Investigations into the supply chain continue.