SANDF intercepts 78kg of dagga near Zimbabwe border

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has intercepted 78kg of dagga worth an estimated R473,000 during border security operations near Zimbabwe, as a newly deployed infantry battalion steps up patrols along the Limpopo River.

The drug consignment was intercepted by members of 10 South African Infantry Battalion operating in the Musina area under Operation CORONA.

According to a SANDF statement published on 2 November 2026, the dagga was allegedly intended to be smuggled into South Africa.

The soldiers estimated its street value at R473 000.

The seizure formed part of a series of day and night operations conducted after 10 South African Infantry Battalion took over border duties from 4 Artillery Regiment in Musina.

SANDF intensifies operations near Zimbabwe

The incoming battalion immediately began conducting area domination operations along the Limpopo River, which forms part of the border between South Africa and Zimbabwe.

The operations resulted in several interceptions involving goods allegedly being smuggled illegally between the two neighbouring countries.

In a separate incident, soldiers intercepted a white Toyota Cross valued at R570,000.

The vehicle had reportedly been stolen in Witbank and was fitted with cloned Limpopo registration plates.

Other confiscated items included 399 bottles of Bronclear cough syrup and 48 bottles of Still Pain cough syrup, with a combined value of R15,141.

The soldiers also seized 28 cartons of Express Royal cigarettes worth R12,234, more than 80 litres of petrol valued at R14 000 and Chibuku beer worth R120.

During night operations, several vehicles were also intercepted while allegedly transporting goods intended to be smuggled from South Africa into the neighbouring country.

Operation CORONA targets cross-border crime

The latest interceptions come as the SANDF continues deploying soldiers along South Africa’s borders to combat illegal activities, including smuggling and the movement of stolen vehicles.

DefenceWeb reported on 30 October that joint operations involving the SANDF, South African Police Service (SAPS) and other law enforcement agencies had targeted strategic routes and illegal crossing points in Limpopo.

The operations covered areas including Musina, Tshamutumbu, Makhado and routes leading towards the Limpopo River.

Operation CORONA forms part of the military’s ongoing border safeguarding responsibilities, with soldiers conducting patrols and monitoring vulnerable crossing points.

The latest Musina deployment signals the continuation of these efforts, with 10 South African Infantry Battalion now responsible for operations in the area.

The SANDF said the operations demonstrate its continued commitment to safeguarding South Africa’s borders and protecting the country’s territorial integrity.