A ZIMBABWEAN truck driver making his way from Zimbabwe into South Africa was stopped and arrested at the Beitbridge border post on Thursday after he was discovered to be in possession of several explosive devices of the type used to blow up cash ATMs.
South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed the arrest Thursday morning of the 27-year-old male driver. SAPS further said the suspect is now in police custody and investigations are ongoing.
The effort to smuggle in highly dangerous explosive equipment is likely to put the perpetrator behind bars for the foreseeable future.
These devices, according to SAPS, are commonly used in ATM bombings, illegal mining operations, and even cash-in-transit (CIT) heists.
A statement issued by SAPS Limpopo read: “SAPS in Limpopo operating at the Beitbridge port of entry recovered explosives, blasting cartridges and connector capped fuses on a truck that was traveling from Zimbabwe to Alberton in Gauteng.
“A 27-year-old truck driver has been arrested, and a case will be opened for unlawful possession of explosives.”
#sapsLIM Beitbridge POE: Earlier today, #SAPS recovered explosives blasting cartridges & connector capped fuses on a truck that was travelling from Zimbabwe to SA, Alberton Gauteng. 27yr-old Truck driver arrested. Case will be opened for unlawful possession of explosives ME pic.twitter.com/4m3QZM3FVe
— SA Police Service ?? (@SAPoliceService) November 19, 2020
SAPS added that blasting cartridges, connector capped fuses and other dangerous items were all onboard the vehicle, which was attempting to cross the international border into South Africa.
The police say they ascertained that the cargo was heading towards the town of Alberton in Gauteng.
