24 Jul 2026

Tshokwe, a village situated near the Zimbabwe border, boasts a stunning landscape that represents tranquillity. The village is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere, where residents farm and actively participate in government empowerment initiatives to enhance their livelihoods.

Surrounded by greenery and abundant river water, the village exemplifies peace and harmony with nature. However, despite the serene environment, the community faces a challenge of cross-border smuggling, which affects the village.

While the community is often associated with its calm ambiance, the spectre of illegal activity casts a shadow as prohibited goods stealthily infiltrates the area through hidden, unregulated routes, disrupting the peaceful existence of its inhabitants.

The Station Commander of Botshabelo Police Station, Superintendent Sedisa Malefho, shed light on the issue, revealing that smugglers suspected to be from Zimbabwe frequently transport an array of illicit items, including unauthorised medications, alcohol, tobacco, and sanitary gloves, amongst others.

These commodities find their way into the village through secretive crossing points that evade official scrutiny. He said in most instances, the goods are concealed in the underbrush of nearby forests or are tucked away in remote secluded spots, waiting to be secretly retrieved and distributed to the intended purchasers.

“The smuggled goods are often found hidden in the bushes; these include prohibited body and face creams, abortion pills, cartons of illegal cigarettes and alcohol, among other items. No one has been apprehended in connection with this incident,” he said, making reference to the most recent occurrence of goods smuggling.

Superintendent Malefho said items usually confiscated often have an estimated street value exceeding P60,000. He said the significance of the large sums reflects the seriousness of the situation and the possible impact of the goods on the community.

He expressed concern that some villagers may be conniving with smugglers and could be actively involved in the illegal activities, which could disrupt the harmonious way of life for the residents of Tshokwe, negatively impacting their well-being.

Explaining that this year they have recorded two incidents of cross-border smuggling, he appealed to the community members to assist by reporting any suspicious activities and movement. He also reaffirmed the commitment of the police in intensifying patrols along the border to lessen the impact.

One resident of Tshokwe, Ms Dikatlholo Keitshokile voiced significant concerns about the smuggling. He said it not only jeopardises public safety but also creates an atmosphere conducive to the proliferation of further criminal activities.

She said it is also a threat to the overall well-being of the community and creates an environment of fear and distrust among residents, which might lead to erosion of community values and cohesion.

Ms Keitshokile condemned individuals who continue to conceal such practices, emphasising the moral failure of those who engage in these harmful actions for their own gain. She urged the need for collective action, accountability and integrity within the community. ENDS