Explosive cord worth an estimated R100,000 was seized at the Beitbridge Border Post after it was found concealed inside a bag on a bus travelling from Malawi.
The South African Border Management Authority (BMA) said the discovery was made at about 15:30 on Sunday, 28 June, during a routine inspection of an Interlink bus.
A border guard became suspicious of a piece of luggage and searched it, uncovering explosive cord concealed inside a bag of rice. The cord is classified as an explosive under South African law.
The South African Police Service’s Bomb Disposal Unit and the Hawks were called to the scene to secure the explosives and launch an investigation.
A Malawian man was arrested in connection with the seizure and is being detained by the Musina police. Authorities are investigating the origin of the explosives, their intended destination, and whether they are linked to a transnational organised crime network.
Acting BMA Commissioner Major General (retired) David Chilembe praised the border guard whose vigilance led to the discovery.
“This interception is a testament to the vigilance, professionalism and dedication of our Border Guards, who remain committed to detecting and preventing the movement of prohibited and dangerous goods across our ports of entry,” Chilembe said.
He said the BMA would continue working with law enforcement agencies to combat the illegal movement of explosives, firearms, drugs and other contraband across South Africa’s borders.