A 39-year-old Mozambican national has been sentenced to ten years’ imprisonment for drug trafficking following his arrest at the Lebombo Port of Entry in Mpumalanga.

According to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks), the operation unfolded in June 2024 when members of the South African Police Service intercepted a minibus entering South Africa from Mozambique. The vehicle was found to be carrying 17 containers of crystal methamphetamine weighing a total of 17 kilograms, with an estimated street value of R4.25 million.

The accused, Jorge Salomao Chimene, was the sole occupant of the minibus. The drugs were concealed in various compartments of the vehicle, including inside speakers, indicating an intention to smuggle the narcotics into the country.

Following his arrest, the case was handed over to the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit based in Nelspruit. Investigators successfully opposed bail after presenting evidence that the drugs were destined for distribution within South Africa.

Chimene appeared in court on Thursday, 29 January 2026, where he pleaded guilty to possession of drugs. He was sentenced to ten years’ imprisonment, with seven years suspended for three years on condition that he is not convicted of a similar offence during that period. This means he will serve an effective three years behind bars.

The Provincial Head of the Hawks in Mpumalanga, Major General Nico Gerber, welcomed the sentence, saying it sent a strong message to those involved in drug trafficking. He described the distribution of drugs as a serious crime that destroys lives and communities.

Police have reiterated their commitment to combating cross-border drug trafficking and protecting communities from the harmful effects of illegal substances.