POLOKWANE - A 30-year-old accused, Mzingaye Siqhoza, was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment or a fine of R200 000, by the Polokwane Commercial Crime Court for possession of illicit cigarettes.

The Court heard that in November 2022, the accused and his accomplice were arrested after being found in possession of Illicit Cigarettes inside a Silver BMW on the N1 road next to Shell Garage outside Polokwane.

Following meticulous investigations, the accused Mzingaye Siqhoza was found guilty of contravening the provisions of section 80 (1) (a) of Customs and Excise Act. On Monday, 06 February 2023, he was sentenced to a fine of R200,000 or Two years imprisonment and a further three years’ imprisonment wholly suspended for five years. The motor vehicle and cigarettes were forfeited to the state.

Charges against his accomplices Beauty Mpofu were withdrawn.

"We welcome the sentencing handed down to the accused, Criminals should know that lawlessness is never tolerated in this Province," said Lieutenant General Hadebe.

Source: South African Police Service