BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
NOKWANE- The Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force) has intensified operations along the Kingdom’s border lines, intercepting dagga valued at over E398 790 as well as recovering 41 goats in separate smuggling incidents.
The operations, carried out in different locations, form part of ongoing efforts by the UEDF to curb rising cross-border criminal activities, particularly livestock and drug smuggling into and out of Eswatini, mainly to the Republic of South Africa.
The UEDF has expressed concern over the continued trend despite sustained patrols, noting that criminal syndicates remain active along the boundary lines. In response, the army has announced increased visibility patrols and surprise checkpoints aimed at tightening border security.
In the first incident on May 12, 2026, at around 1830 hours in Siphambanweni, UEDF mobile patrol units intercepted a white Toyota Hilux LDV transporting 41 goats. A female suspect, identified as Ngcebo Gumedze, a 36-year-old South African national from Ngwavuma in KwaZulu-Natal, was arrested.
The vehicle, suspect, and livestock were handed over to relevant law enforcement authorities for further processing.
In a separate operation on May 9, 2026, at Machobeni at around 2200 hours, troops intercepted a Swazi male, Banele Dlamini found in possession of seven bags of dagga weighing 213.02kg, with an estimated street value of E213 020. He was driving a white Ford Focus with registration BD 29 NH GP.
In another incident at the same location and time, soldiers also apprehended Bongane Gamedze (29) from the Hlathikhulu-Ngololweni area after he was found in possession of six bags of dagga weighing 180.39kg, valued at approximately E180 390. He was driving a grey Honda Fit with registration XSD 493 AS.
In a further operation on May 12, 2026, at Ntsalitshe, troops recovered 5.4kg of dagga valued at E5400. The suspect managed to flee the scene upon sighting the soldiers, but the contraband was seized and handed over to law enforcement agencies.
The UEDF Commander’s Office has commended members of the public for assisting in reporting criminal activities along the border and has urged continued cooperation to strengthen national security.
The Commander also cautioned against all forms of criminality along the Kingdom’s border lines, while praising troops for their dedication in safeguarding the country.
#CrimePrevention #AntiSmuggling #DaggaSeizure #LivestockTheft #NationalSecurity #UmbutfoEswatiniDefenceForce
(Courtesy Pic)
