Border Management Authority
1Min
South Africa
Nov 20, 2025
Illicit tobacco deprives the South African Revenue Service (SARS) of critical revenue. By intercepting such consignments, the BMA helps to safeguard tax integrity and public finances.
The Border Management Authority (BMA) has confirmed the seizure of illicit tobacco during an inspection at the Beitbridge commercial port of entry in the early hours of Wednesday.
According to BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato, officials used the authority’s new Video Scope inspection toolkit at about 01:00 to examine a commercial truck entering from Zimbabwe. The equipment detected irregularities, leading to a physical search of the vehicle. Officers then discovered 14 master boxes of Remington Gold cigarettes hidden inside.
A Zimbabwean national was arrested, and a case has been opened for further investigation.
Masiapato said the new inspection technology played a key role in identifying the concealed goods. He added that detecting illicit tobacco is important for protecting revenue and supporting broader law-enforcement efforts.
“Illicit tobacco deprives the South African Revenue Service (SARS) of critical revenue. By intercepting such consignments, the BMA helps to safeguard tax integrity and public finances. Beyond the immediate financial loss, illicit cigarettes pose health risks and fuel organised crime” Dr Masiapato said.
The BMA encouraged the public to report suspicious activities through its Operation Hi-Tivise hotline at 0801 229 019 or via its website.
