Truck Driver and Accomplice Jailed for R7 Million Drug Smuggling — Truck Forfeited to the State

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After more than a decade of investigations and court proceedings, two men have finally been convicted and sentenced for their roles in a R7 million drug smuggling operation that was intercepted at the Beitbridge border post.

The two, Johannes James Harry (56) and Sobhuza Aubrey Lingwati (70), both South African citizens, were found guilty by the Protea Magistrates Court of unlawful possession of drugs, manufacturing of drugs, and corruption. The case, which dates back to 2008, concluded with both men receiving six-year prison sentences and hefty fines.

According to Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Lethunya Mmuroa, the long-running investigation uncovered how the accused used a commercial truck to smuggle heroin concealed in a false compartment of a trailer.

“Police at Beitbridge Port of Entry stopped a truck coming from Zimbabwe. During inspection, they discovered a hidden compartment containing heroin valued at over R7 million,” said Mmuroa. “The driver, Lingwati, was arrested on the spot after officers used a grinder to open the false compartment.”

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Following the arrest, Harry allegedly approached police officers and offered them a bribe in an attempt to secure Lingwati’s release, an act that landed him additional corruption charges.

Further investigations led the Hawks to a plot in Zuurbekom, Gauteng, where drug manufacturing equipment was recovered. This discovery linked the smuggling operation to a broader network operating in the province.

Both men were sentenced as follows:

• Harry: R300 000 fine or six years imprisonment for corruption and manufacturing of drugs.
• Lingwati: R150 000 fine or six years imprisonment for manufacturing of drugs.

The court also declared both unfit to possess firearms under the Firearm Control Act. Importantly, the truck and trailer used in the crime were forfeited to the State.

The Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit in Polokwane was credited for the thorough investigation that finally brought the long-pending case to a close.

“This conviction sends a clear message that crime may be slow to catch up with you, but it surely will,” added Warrant Officer Mmuroa.