Woman arrested trying to smuggle explosives from Zim into SA

AN unidentified woman has been arrested at the Beitbridge Border Post while trying to smuggle explosives and detonators into South Africa.

Details about the woman could not be readily established last night but sources at the border post said the woman was arrested when police searched a bus she was travelling in and allegedly found the explosives and detonators in her luggage.

The bus was reportedly heading towards South Africa from Zimbabwe.

South African police confirmed to the neighbouring country's media that after the recovery of the explosives, a bomb disposal unit was called to the scene and confirmed that the woman was carrying explosives.

"While busy searching the suspect's luggage, (police) members were surprised to discover 26 plastic cartridges and 100 detonators. The bomb disposal unit was called to the scene and confirmed that the woman was carrying explosives," South Africa police said.

The woman is expected to appear soon at the Musina magistrate's court on charges of unauthorised importation, supply or possession of an explosive or incendiary device, or part thereof, according to reports from South Africa.

Local police were not readily available to give details about the arrest.