BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MBABANE – A major cross-border crime breakthrough has once again highlighted the importance of strong security collaboration between Eswatini and South Africa.
Drugs valued at approximately E900 000 were seized at the Oshoek Port of Entry after a truck that had just exited the Kingdom was intercepted in a joint law-enforcement operation.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, 12 November 2025, when South African Police Service (SAPS) officers stationed at the Oshoek border gate stopped a South African-registered truck travelling from Eswatini. During the routine inspection, officers quickly noticed suspicious boxes and plastic bags hidden among the cargo and immediately called in the Secunda-based Hawks Serious Organised Crime Investigation team.
Upon inspection, the Hawks uncovered suspected mandrax tablets and dagga concealed inside the packaging, preventing the illegal substances from reaching South African communities. The drugs were swiftly seized and sent for forensic investigation.
Two men, a 33-year-old driver and his 40-year-old crew member, both South African citizens originally from Lesotho, were arrested at the scene. Authorities also recovered R3 200 and E4 600 in cash from the pair.
The suspects appeared today, 13 November 2025, at the Elukwatini District Court.
Major General Nico Gerber, Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation in Mpumalanga, applauded the seamless cooperation between border security units. He emphasised that this success comes as part of the intensified Safer Festive Season operations, which are aimed at dismantling organised crime networks and ensuring safer communities across both nations.
This latest breakthrough underscores Eswatini’s continued commitment to regional safety, with the interception demonstrating that joint vigilance at border posts remains a powerful tool in keeping drugs off the streets and safeguarding citizens on both sides of the border.
( Courtesy Pics)
