Two South African men have been slapped with a combined R450,000 fine after being convicted of attempting to smuggle heroin valued at over R7 million into South Africa through the Beitbridge Border Post, using Zimbabwe as a transit route.
The duo — Johannes James Harry (56) and Sobhuza Aubrey Lingwati (70) — were found guilty by the Protea Magistrates’ Court on charges of drug possession, drug manufacturing, and corruption.
If they fail to pay the fines, each will serve six years in prison.
According to Warrant Officer Lethunya Mmuroa, spokesperson for South Africa’s elite crime-fighting unit, the Hawks, the drugs were concealed in a false compartment of a commercial truck.
He said Harry was fined R300,000 or six years’ imprisonment for corruption and drug manufacturing, while Lingwati received a R150,000 fine or six years for manufacturing drugs.
Both men were also declared unfit to own firearms under the Firearms Control Act, and their truck and trailer were forfeited to the State.
The drug bust dates back to 2008, when South African police at the Beitbridge Port of Entry stopped a truck entering from Zimbabwe for inspection.
“During the search, police discovered a false compartment on the trailer. When officers used a grinder to open it, they found heroin worth over R7 million,” said Warrant Officer Mmuroa.
Lingwati, the driver, was arrested on the spot. Shortly after, Harry reportedly approached the officers and attempted to bribe them to avoid the arrest — leading to his immediate detention for corruption.
Investigations Uncover Drug Lab in Gauteng
Further investigations by the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Unit traced the drugs to a property in Zuurbekom, Gauteng, where officers uncovered equipment used in drug manufacturing.
A second case was opened at Westonaria Police Station, and the Polokwane-based Hawks unit took over both investigations.
The accused were later charged and appeared in court, where they were released on bail pending trial.
After a lengthy legal process, the court found both men guilty. The truck and trailer used in the smuggling attempt were seized by the State as part of the sentencing.
“The Hawks remain committed to dismantling drug syndicates and protecting the integrity of our borders,” said Warrant Officer Mmuroa.
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