Army confiscate over E2.2mln worth of dagga on the borderline

By Thokozani Mazibuko

The Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) has recorded significant progress in its efforts to curb cross-border drug trafficking, particularly the smuggling of dagga, according to the Ministry of Defence and National Security’s Second Quarterly Performance Report.

During the period under review, the Defence Force successfully intercepted and confiscated 2,266.774 kilograms of dagga, with an estimated street value of E2,266,774.00.

The consignment was seized in various operations conducted across the country and along Eswatini’s borders, particularly with the Republic of South Africa.

According to the report, the confiscated drugs were handed over to different police stations within the UEDF’s Areas of Responsibility (AOR), along with some of the suspects involved in the illegal trade. In certain instances, traffickers abandoned their consignments and fled the scene to evade arrest.

“The operations extended from foot patrols to vehicle checkpoint (VCP) patrols,” the report stated. “Foreign nationals, especially from the Republic of South Africa, were intercepted while attempting to transport dagga across the border.”

The Ministry commended the UEDF for its consistent vigilance and operational discipline, emphasizing that such efforts contribute significantly to the country’s internal security and regional crime prevention.

The report also highlighted the increasing sophistication of smuggling attempts, noting that traffickers are adopting new routes and methods to evade law enforcement.

However, the Defence Force remains resolute in its mission to disrupt the illegal trade. “Patrols will be intensified in order to bring to book or eliminate this illicit activity within our areas of operations,” the Ministry affirmed.

Dagga smuggling remains one of the major cross-border crimes affecting Eswatini, with traffickers exploiting porous sections of the border to transport the substance into neighbouring South Africa, where it fetches a higher market price.

Security analysts have noted that the UEDF’s recent successes reflect improved coordination with other law enforcement agencies, including the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), as well as enhanced surveillance capabilities along key smuggling corridors.

The Ministry concluded by reiterating its commitment to protecting Eswatini’s territorial integrity and ensuring that the country’s borders remain secure against all forms of transnational crime.

“The Defence Force will continue to strengthen its intelligence-led operations and border patrols to maintain national security and prevent Eswatini from being used as a transit point for illicit activities,” the report emphasized.

With intensified patrols and inter-agency collaboration, authorities believe the recent crackdown marks another decisive step in dismantling the networks behind dagga smuggling and preserving peace and order within the Kingdom.