NATIONAL NEWS - A major South African Police Service (Saps) operation has uncovered yet another suspected multi-million-rand drug manufacturing laboratory.

The raid took place in Krugersdorp on Thursday, where officers seized quantities of Mandrax and ecstasy tablets and arrested five South African nationals in a fresh blow against organised crime in Gauteng.

Drug lab

Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale said Saps and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks, dismantled the operation in what authorities believe to be a multi-million-rand illicit drug laboratory.

“Police have discovered quantities of Mandrax and ecstasy tablets at the suspected drug manufacturing laboratory. Five South African nationals who were found at the premises have been arrested.”

During the raid, police found two press machines used to manufacture the drugs, valued at about R100 million.

Gauteng Police Commissioner Tommy Mthombeni confirmed that police have identified the property owner, who will face criminal charges.

The latest bust adds to a growing list of high-value drug laboratory takedowns across the country as law enforcement agencies intensify efforts to dismantle organised crime syndicates involved in the production and distribution of illicit substances.

Drug bust

Earlier this week, Hartbeespoortdam police arrested four suspects at an apparent drug laboratory.

The four suspects, a 39-year-old Zimbabwean national and three females aged between 23 and 29, were found in possession of four firearms – including a rifle and three handguns – at a plot in Scheerpoort, North West.

This followed information received by Hartbeespoortdam South African Police Service (Saps) Crime Prevention members about suspected illegal activity at the property.

The suspects were charged with possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, as well as dealing and manufacturing drugs.

Article: Caxton publication, The Citizen

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