The Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) has intensified border security operations following a series of major drug interceptions in the Shiselweni and Lubombo regions, seizing dagga valued at over E500,000 and arresting several suspects in separate incidents.
In the latest operations conducted on 23 June 2026, UEDF troops mounted at vehicle checkpoints in the Mashayineni area of Lushikishini intercepted two separate consignments of dagga being transported through the border corridor.
In the first incident at around 6 am, troops stopped an orange Nissan Murano and discovered nine bags of dagga weighing 107.1 kilograms, with an estimated street value of E107 100.
The suspects were identified as 31-year-old Thabiso Myolwa of Luve, Mbelebeleni in the Manzini region, who was driving the vehicle, and 34-year-old Patrick S. Mbatha, also from Luve, Mbelebeleni.
Shortly after, at around 7 am in the same area, troops intercepted a white Toyota Hilux GD-6 bakkie carrying 22 bags of dagga weighing 403.2 kilograms, valued at approximately E403 200. 
The driver was identified as 44-year-old Mxolisi Mnisi of Maguga in the Hhohho region.
In a separate operation on June 25, 2026, at around 5:37 pm, troops on patrol in the Sivule area of the Lubombo region apprehended four Zimbabwean nationals who were attempting to enter Eswatini illegally from South Africa.
The individuals were handed over to the relevant law enforcement agencies.
UEDF Public Affairs Officer Major Sandile M. Gwebu said the operations reflect the force’s continued commitment to tightening border security and disrupting criminal networks.
“Border security operations remain active and ongoing, and we continue to intercept illegal activities along the boundary line.
We are grateful to members of the public who continue to assist by sharing information that helps us in curbing criminality,” said Major Gwebu.
He added that illegal crossings and drug smuggling will continue to be met with firm action as patrols are sustained across all border regions.
