SANDF Soldiers, Foreign Nationals Face Court Over Alleged Cigarette Smuggling

The case has been registered at the Musina Police Station with charges that include corruption, possession of illicit cigarettes, unlawful discharge of a firearm, and defeating the ends of justice.

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has confirmed that five of its members, along with two Zimbabwean nationals, are expected to appear in the Musina Magistrate’s Court on charges related to the theft and concealment of illicit cigarettes. The case has cast a spotlight on corruption and misconduct within the ranks of the country’s armed forces and prompted calls for stronger accountability measures.

Midnight Operation Gone Wrong

According to preliminary reports, the incident took place shortly after midnight on 16 September 2025. A group of SANDF members allegedly launched an unauthorised operation at Arton Villa in Musina, known internally as the Sediba sa Tlou Base.

It is alleged that the soldiers, working with two Zimbabwean nationals, attempted to intercept a group of cross-border smugglers transporting contraband cigarettes into South Africa. Shots were reportedly fired during the operation, and the illicit goods were seized. Instead of following proper procedures, some of the contraband was allegedly concealed within the military base.

Joint Intelligence Operation Uncovers Concealment

A joint intelligence effort involving the SANDF Military Police, Military Intelligence, and the South African Police Service (SAPS) exposed the alleged misconduct. Investigators discovered six hidden boxes of illicit cigarettes inside the base, in addition to the 18 boxes that had already been lawfully handed over to the South African Revenue Service (SARS).

The SANDF statement revealed that the suspects initially attempted to obstruct the investigation and denied investigators access to the premises. Access was only granted following the intervention of senior SANDF officers, after which the illicit goods were uncovered.

Serious Charges and Court Proceedings

The case has been registered at the Musina Police Station with charges that include corruption, possession of illicit cigarettes, unlawful discharge of a firearm, and defeating the ends of justice.

“The SANDF views these allegations in a very serious light. Such conduct undermines the integrity of the Defence Force and the trust placed in its members by the Republic of South Africa,” the statement read.

The Defence Force confirmed its full cooperation with SAPS, SARS, and other law enforcement agencies to ensure that those implicated face both military and civilian justice systems.

Internal Disciplinary Processes Underway

In parallel with the criminal case, the Chief of the SANDF has directed that internal disciplinary proceedings be instituted against the implicated members. The outcomes of these proceedings will guide further administrative and command decisions, including possible dismissal.

The SANDF reiterated its zero-tolerance approach to corruption, smuggling, and misconduct: “Any member found to be acting in contravention of the law will face the full consequences.”

High-Level Oversight and Anti-Corruption Push

The arrests coincided with a recent two-day visit to Limpopo by Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Thalita Mxakato. During her visit, she urged intelligence staff to conduct their duties with integrity, stressing the importance of vigilance against corruption and cross-border smuggling networks.

Mxakato emphasised that corruption within the ranks not only compromises military integrity but also weakens national security in border regions plagued by illicit trade.

Broader Context of Border Smuggling

The Musina region, bordering Zimbabwe, has long been a hotspot for cross-border crime, particularly cigarette smuggling, which costs South Africa billions in lost revenue annually. The involvement of SANDF members—whose mandate is to protect the country from such activities—has deepened concerns about internal corruption undermining border enforcement efforts.

Observers say this case could serve as a critical test of both the SANDF’s disciplinary processes and the broader government’s resolve to root out corruption in state institutions.