SANDF intercepts explosives smuggled from Zimbabwe into South Africa

South African soldiers on routine patrol along the Limpopo River intercepted explosives valued at over R82 000, which were being smuggled into South Africa from Zimbabwe. Three suspects fled the scene upon spotting the army personnel, leaving the explosives behind.

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) confirmed the seizure in a statement, noting that the incident occurred on Friday during a foot patrol east of the Support Base near Musina.

"Members of 1 South African Tank Regiment, under the command of Joint Tactical Headquarters Limpopo, conducted a routine patrol when they spotted three unidentified individuals descending from the old bridge at the Beitbridge Port of Entry," the SANDF said.

The suspects abandoned their bags and escaped into nearby fields, likely returning to Zimbabwe. Authorities later discovered that the bags contained Superpower 90 explosives, valued at R82 300. The explosives were handed over to Musina Police Station after verification by the South African Police Service Bomb Disposal Unit.

Officials expressed concern that explosives smuggling is increasingly linked to illegal mining activities in Gauteng and Free State provinces, often involving syndicates made up of South Africans and foreign nationals from countries including Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Lesotho.

The incident comes shortly after former Zimbabwean MP Job Sikhala and his uncle Alexander Thema (78) were arrested in Gauteng for allegedly possessing explosives. The pair were granted R10 000 bail each and are scheduled to appear in court on February 3 for possible trial.

Authorities urged communities along the Limpopo River to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, as cross-border smuggling of explosives continues to pose serious safety and security risks.