Operation Shanela Leads to Arrest at Mahamba Port of Entry

NELSPRUIT – A major operation at the Port of Entry in Mahamba has culminated in the apprehension of a suspect for his alleged involvement in smuggling dagga. The operation, named Operation Shanela, saw the arrest of Majahakangwane Sifundza, a 41-year-old individual from the Kingdom of Eswatini, on the 30th of October, 2023.

According to South Africa Police Service, police officers on duty at the Port of Entry intercepted a black VW Golf bearing registration plates from the Kingdom of Eswatini. The police grew suspicious upon detecting the smell of dagga emanating from the spare wheel in the vehicle’s boot, leading to a thorough search. This search resulted in the discovery of six black plastic bags filled with dagga, weighing approximately 1,630 kilograms, and with an estimated street value of R6,846.00. Sifundza was promptly arrested and charged with dealing in dagga.

Sifundza made an appearance at the Piet Retief Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 1st November 2023, where his case was adjourned to the 8th of November 2023 for a formal bail application. He remains in custody until that date. In the aftermath of the operation, the management of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga commended the efforts of the members at the Port of Entry and assured that operations to combat crime will persist, leaving no stone unturned.