Key Points
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Nine suspects arrested in Standerton, Mpumalanga, for running an illegal drug lab.
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R3.6 million in cash, luxury cars, and equipment worth R48 million seized.
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Minister calls for stronger law enforcement and municipal awareness.
Nine individuals were arrested in Standerton, Mpumalanga, for allegedly running an illegal drug lab. Authorities seized luxury vehicles, including a Range Rover, several BMWs, and a Mercedes-Benz, along with R3.6 million in cash from the Mercedes. The total value of assets seized was over R20 million.
Successful operation reveals illegal drug lab
The operation, led by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) and other law enforcement units, uncovered drug manufacturing sites in a farm, a warehouse, and a house.
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, and Hawks’ Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya visited the scene after the raid.
Mchunu explained that a tip-off had led police to the property. He revealed that authorities found a disassembled tablet and pressing machine, worth millions if fully operational.
The raid resulted in the seizure of 11 luxury vehicles and equipment worth R48 million.
Arrests and upcoming court hearings
The nine suspects, including Mozambican and South African nationals, appeared in court for the first time. One South African suspect was granted bail, while the others will have a formal bail hearing on April 25, 2025.
Mchunu noted that the amount of cash found and the scale of the illegal operation demonstrated that the perpetrators were heavily involved in the drug trade.
Law enforcement priorities and future actions
He stressed the need for increased law enforcement capacity to tackle such illegal operations. He also urged municipalities to monitor spaces for suspicious activities, especially in industrial and residential areas.
The minister called for regular raids at key locations like taxi and bus ranks to prevent illicit business operations.
“We must dismantle the entire drug trade value chain,” Mchunu said.
