By Montsho Matlala
Thabazimbi – Authorities have warned the public against consuming medicines from unauthorised outlets, saying such products may pose serious health risks.
This comes after Limpopo police foiled an attempt to smuggle a large consignment of medicines and dagga across South Africa’s borders, arresting two foreign nationals on Monday.
The suspects, Cuthbert Derera (30) and Wishborn Fufa (39), appeared in the Thabazimbi Magistrate’s Court facing charges under the Medicines and Related Substances Act as well as possession of dagga.
They were remanded in custody and are expected to return to court on Monday next week for a formal bail application.
According to Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, officers acted on intelligence about a truck transporting multiple bottles of Benylin with Codeine, other medicines, and dagga towards the Groblersbrug border post in the Waterberg district.
“The officers, supported by a private security company, intercepted the truck on the R510 road to Lephalale. The driver and his crew were asked to step out, and during the search, police discovered 40 bales of dagga valued at R1.5 million as well as assorted bottles of Benylin with Codeine, Bronclear, and Astra painkillers valued at R500,000. The suspects could not account for the origin of the goods and were immediately arrested,” said Ledwaba.
Limpopo police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe commended the officers for their determination in intercepting the smuggling attempt.
Police say ongoing investigations will establish the origin and final destination of the confiscated medicines and dagga.
