KEY POINTS
- The Hawks arrested a suspect in East London for drug possession.
- Officers seized 6,000 ecstasy tablets, worth R720,000 ($38,628).
- The suspect is expected to appear in court on March 3, 2025.
A 26-year-old man has been arrested by the South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau (SANEB), a division of the Hawks, after he was allegedly found in possession of a large quantity of ecstasy tablets.
Authorities say the suspect was traveling from Durban to Cape Town when he was intercepted in East London, Eastern Cape, over the weekend.
The Hawks initiated an intelligence-driven operation after receiving a tip-off about a suspect transporting drugs on a long-distance bus.
Law enforcement officials tracked the vehicle as it made a scheduled stop at the Windmill depot in East London on Saturday, allowing passengers to disembark for a break.
The officials watched the suspect’s activities before executing their operation. Once he reboarded the bus, authorities stepped in and conducted a search of his luggage.
Authorities seize 6,000 ecstasy tablets
During the search, officers discovered a brown package in the suspect’s bag, later confirmed to contain approximately 6,000 ecstasy tablets.
According to IOL, the estimated street value of the drugs is R720,000 ($38,628), marking a significant bust for anti-narcotics authorities.
The suspect was immediately arrested and is now facing drug trafficking charges. He is set to appear before the East London Magistrates’ Court on March 3, 2025.
The Hawks’ provincial leadership praised the SANEB team for their quick action, emphasizing the importance of intelligence-led policing in disrupting the movement of illicit substances.
“This arrest sends a strong message to drug traffickers that we are watching, and we will ensure they face the full force of the law,” a Hawks official said.
Police continue efforts to crack down on drug trade
Authorities have stepped up anti-drug operations to stop drug syndicates through their transportation networks.
Moreover, the Hawks have urged the public to report any suspicious activity. Residents and civilians must collaborate as an essential element for fighting organized crime operations.
The drug strike in East London represents one aspect of increasing law enforcement strategies to control drugs transported between provinces.
Multiple arrests occurred following similar operations that took place in recent months. Also, security forces have observed a growing sophistication among drug traffickers who continue developing their trafficking techniques.
The investigation process will continue as the defendant prepares to appear in court.
