Police in Limpopo have reported a major breakthrough in the fight against illegal explosives following the seizure of R2 million worth illicit commercial explosives, most likely destined for illegal miners and cash-in-transit robbers.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) said it arrested two foreign national men aged 35 and 37 on Tuesday in the Makhado policing area of the Vhembe District of Limpopo. “Members of Vhembe Flying Squad conducted a tactical stop and search on a vehicle, which was traveling along the N1 South a few kilometres outside Makhado town heading towards Polokwane, where they discovered four bags in the boot, containing Super Power 90 Gel Tubes. The officers arrested both the driver and the passenger,” the SAPS said.

The Explosives Unit was called to the scene, confirming that what was found was commercial explosives. The vehicle was also confiscated as part of the ongoing investigation.

The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, commended the officers for their vigilance and swift action in curbing the threat posed by illegal explosives, which could have been used in serious and violent crimes.

The SAPS said further investigation will be conducted to trace the origin and intended destination of the explosives. The suspects are expected to appear before the Makhado Magistrate’s Court on 21 November on a charge of possession of illegal explosives.