National Crime Intelligence led the operation with support from the Hawks and Durban Metro Police Tactical Support Unit. The breakthrough followed the interception of a driver suspected of working for an illicit tobacco syndicate, which pointed investigators to the two sites. SARS Customs and Excise officials were present to process the seized goods.
No arrests had been made at the time of reporting, though police said they expected to detain suspects soon as the investigation continues. The story was first reported by journalist Dasen Thathiah and amplified by crime reporter Yusuf Abramjee on X.
This follows other recent enforcement actions against illicit goods, including a similar large seizure of counterfeit cigarettes (also valued at over R41 million) at a Durban container depot earlier in 2026, and a separate Limpopo operation involving illicit goods and stolen vehicles.
Illicit cigarette trade remains a significant issue in South Africa, involving tax evasion, smuggling networks, and organised crime often linked to port cities like Durban.
