Police say the explosives were rendered safe and samples were taken for forensic analysis.
A 28-year-old Zimbabwean national has been caught with explosives on his way to Cape Town, police confirmed.
The man was stopped during a search on Friday morning at the Beitbridge port of entry.
It is the latest discovery of explosives at Beitbridge that has seen several such discoveries in recent months.
“The suspect was apprehended during a routine search operation at approximately 6.30am when a detector dog handler discovered suspicious items concealed in red 50kg polyester bags inside a trailer. The trailer, was being towed by a white Toyota Quantum vehicle,” said police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba
Among the items found were:
- Six reels of detonating fuses;
- 2 505 Superpower explosives;
- 90 blasting cartridges; and
- 100 Carmex connector capped fuses.
“The explosives were rendered safe and samples were taken for forensic analysis,” said Ledwaba.
Beyond more concerning reasons for explosives, such as terrorism, they may have been sent into the country for illegal mining operations, a scourge that the government has yet to eradicate.
Headed to Cape Town
He said initial investigations indicate that the consignment was reportedly destined for Cape Town.
The man is expected to appear before the Musina Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 19 May, for the illegal possession of explosives.
Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe praised the arrest.
“The interception of these explosives highlights the effectiveness of our border security measures and the dedication of our officers.
“We will continue to strengthen our efforts to ensure that our ports of entry are not used as conduits for illegal activities that threaten the safety and security of our nation.”
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Explosive border
The arrest follows a similar discovery at the border last month.
A 37-year-old foreign national was arrested when the truck he was driving was found loaded with explosives.
That truck had licence plates from Gauteng and was headed to that province.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said the explosives were valued at approximately R300 000.
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