JOHANNESBURG, April 14 (Xinhua) -- South African authorities intercepted an attempt to smuggle explosives from Zimbabwe through the Beitbridge Port of Entry on Friday, local media reported on Tuesday.
According to media reports, Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA) Michael Masiapato said that mining explosives and detonators worth one million rand (about 61,000 U.S. dollars) were discovered in a concealed compartment within a trailer.
The driver, who initially claimed to be transporting scrap metal, attempted to flee after officials uncovered the contraband during a routine inspection.
"This interception is part of our daily stop-and-search operations conducted across all ports of entry to ensure only legitimate goods enter the country," Masiapato said.
The BMA said the explosives have been handed over to the local police explosives unit to determine their origin and intended destination. ■